Free Milling Machine VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
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Purpose of a Milling Machine VOC Document
Milling Machine VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in milling machine 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 Milling Machine 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
Milling Machine VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Milling Machine 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 milling machine?
A milling machine is a versatile machine tool used primarily for shaping solid materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and composites. It operates by rotating a cutting tool with multiple cutting edges, called a milling cutter, against the workpiece to remove material in a controlled manner. Milling machines can perform a wide range of operations including milling, drilling, boring, tapping, and slotting to create complex shapes, contours, and features with high precision and accuracy. They are commonly used in manufacturing, metalworking, machining, and prototyping for producing parts, components, molds, and dies across various industries.
What is a milling machine used for?
A milling machine is primarily used for machining solid materials, such as metal, wood, and plastic, to produce complex shapes, contours, and features. It operates by removing material from the workpiece using a rotating cutting tool, known as a milling cutter, which moves along multiple axes (usually X, Y, and Z) to perform cutting operations. Milling machines are commonly used in manufacturing, metalworking, and machining industries for tasks such as cutting, drilling, shaping, and slotting workpieces to precise dimensions and tolerances. They are versatile machines capable of producing a wide range of components, from simple flat surfaces to intricate three-dimensional shapes, with high accuracy and repeatability.
What hazards are involved in milling machine use?
Many hazards exist in milling machine operation, for example:
- Entanglement
- Struck-By Accidents
- Electrocution
- Noise Exposure
- Vibration
- Chemical Exposure
- Eye Injuries
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 milling machine?
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 milling machine operation, workers can complete the RTO unit https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/RIICRC319E.
Did You Know?
Did you know that milling machines have a fascinating historical background? The concept of milling dates back to ancient times, but the modern milling machine was developed in the 19th century during the Industrial Revolution. With its ability to precisely shape and cut metal, the milling machine became a crucial tool in industries such as manufacturing, machining, and metalworking, revolutionizing the production of intricate parts and components. Today, milling machines continue to play a vital role in various sectors, allowing for precise and efficient material removal and shaping.
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/