FREE Waterjet Cutter SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Waterjet Cutter SOP Template:
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Purpose of Document
Waterjet Cutter SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for waterjet cutter use. Waterjet Cutter SOPs can also be used as a training and induction document. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness by outlining a safe system of work and providing adequate training and instruction. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
Waterjet Cutter SOPs should be communicated to workers before they complete the task. A hard copy can also be displayed in the workplace or provided at the workface. You can also use Waterjet Cutter SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
NOTE: This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that 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
Workers should read and agree to comply with Waterjet Cutter SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Waterjet cutter SOPs should be developed by a competent person. The SOP is then read and followed by the worker completing the task. New workers should also read and understand the SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to have a documented Safe Operating Procedure (SOP). However, it is best practice, as having SOPs can assist in meeting 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(39) WHS Regulations – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, and Instruction
- 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 provide workers with information, training, and instruction as necessary to protect them from risks arising from the use of the plant.
FAQ’s
What is a waterjet cutter?
A waterjet cutter is a machine tool that uses a high-pressure stream of water mixed with abrasive particles to cut through various materials, including metal, stone, glass, ceramics, and composites.
What is a waterjet cutter used for?
It’s commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and construction for precision cutting of complex shapes and thick materials.
What hazards are involved in using a waterjet cutter?
Some hazards that are involved in waterjet cutter use include:
- Laceration/ cuts
- Inhalation of airborne particles
- Noise
- Electric shock
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during waterjet cutter use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Wearing PPE
- Installing guards
- Ensure ventilation
- Operator training
Did you know?
The waterjet cutter, a versatile tool in material fabrication, emerged in the 1970s, utilizing high-pressure water streams to precisely cut a wide range of materials without heat distortion. Originally developed for industrial applications, waterjet cutters quickly found use in diverse fields such as aerospace, automotive, and art. Advancements in technology, including the addition of abrasive particles, expanded their capabilities to cut through thicker and harder materials with exceptional precision. Today, waterjet cutters are indispensable, offering efficient, versatile, and environmentally friendly cutting solutions for various industries, minimizing material waste and enabling intricate designs.
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>
- The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>
- What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>