Free Rattle Gun VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Rattle Gun VOC Template:
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Purpose of a Rattle Gun VOC Document
Rattle Gun VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in rattle gun use. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness through effective training and competency procedures. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
This Rattle Gun VOC should be completed by a competent person in consultation with the trainee who will use the plant.
This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Rattle Gun VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Rattle Gun VOCs must be completed by someone who is familiar with operation of the piece of plant or equipment. This person should also be competent in training and assessment methods.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to complete a documented Verification of Competency (VOC). However, it is best practice. Completing a thorough Verification of Competency can help meet general legal duties, including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(19)(3)d WHS Act – Duty to Ensure Safe Use of Plant
- s(19)(3)f WHS Act – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision
- s(203) WHS Regulations – Management of Risks to Health and Safety (PCBUs with management or control of plant)
The Code of Practice “Managing risks of plant in the workplace” states that employers (PCBUs) must ensure workers are trained and have the appropriate skills to carry out a particular task safely.
FAQ
What is a rattle gun?
A rattle gun is a colloquial term for an impact wrench or impact gun. It is a power tool commonly used in automotive repair, construction, and mechanical maintenance for fastening or loosening nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. The name “rattle gun” comes from the rapid, repetitive impacts it generates while in use, which can produce a rattling sound. These tools are available in various sizes and configurations, including corded, cordless, pneumatic, and hydraulic models, offering different levels of power and mobility for various applications.
What is a rattle gun used for?
A rattle gun, also known as an impact wrench or impact gun, is primarily used for fastening or loosening nuts, bolts, and other fasteners with high torque output. It delivers sudden, repetitive impacts to provide powerful tightening or loosening force, making it suitable for automotive repair, construction, and industrial applications where heavy-duty fastening or unfastening is required.
What hazards are involved in rattle gun use?
Many hazards exist in rattle gun operation, for example:
- Pinching/Crushing Injuries
- Struck-By Accidents
- Electrocution
- Kickback
- Noise Exposure
- Vibration
- Over-torquing
To mitigate these hazards, proper training, adherence to safety protocols, regular equipment maintenance, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and thorough site inspections are essential.
Do you need training to operate a rattle gun?
In general, the level of training provided to workers must take into consideration “the nature of the work, the nature of the risks and the control measures required” – WHS regulations s(39). That is, for plant that poses no or minimal risks, there may be very little training required. As the risks of the plant increases, the requirement for training also increases.
To demonstrate competence in rattle gun operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
Rattle guns, also known as impact wrenches, have a fascinating history tied to the automotive and manufacturing industries. They were first introduced in the early 20th century, primarily for industrial use in assembly lines and the maintenance of heavy machinery. Over time, advancements in technology and design made rattle guns more compact, efficient, and versatile, enabling them to become essential tools in automotive repair and construction industries around the world.
Article Sources and Further Reading
Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-managing-risks-plant-workplace>
Plant (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/plant>
What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>