Safe Work Method Statement

Timber Floor Sanding and Finishing

Comprehensive Australian WHS Compliant SWMS

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Comprehensive safety procedures for timber floor sanding and finishing operations including hardwood refinishing, staining, and sealing. This SWMS addresses silica dust inhalation, chemical exposure, and fire hazards with Australian WHS compliance requirements.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Timber floor sanding and finishing involves mechanical removal of old finishes using abrasive sandpaper followed by application of protective coatings, stains, and sealants. This includes coarse sanding to level surfaces, fine sanding for smoothness, chemical treatment for coloring and protection, and curing processes. Work generates respirable crystalline silica dust from sanding operations and exposes workers to chemical hazards from solvents and finishes. Operations require comprehensive dust control, ventilation, and chemical handling procedures to protect workers and building occupants.

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Why this SWMS matters

Timber floor sanding and finishing presents severe occupational health risks including respirable crystalline silica dust causing silicosis and lung cancer, chemical exposure from solvents and finishes causing respiratory and skin conditions, and fire hazards from flammable materials. According to Safe Work Australia, construction workers have elevated silica exposure risks, and hazardous chemical exposure affects thousands annually. This SWMS ensures compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Managing Respirable Crystalline Silica Code of Practice. Implementation prevents chronic diseases, ensures quality finishes, and protects workers from irreversible health damage while complying with manufacturer specifications and industry standards.

Reinforce licensing, insurance, and regulator expectations for Timber Floor Sanding and Finishing Safe Work Method Statement crews before they mobilise.

Hazard identification

Surface the critical risks tied to this work scope and communicate them to every worker.

Risk register

Silica Dust Inhalation

high

Sanding timber floors generates respirable crystalline silica dust particles that can cause silicosis, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases when inhaled. Hardwood sanding produces fine airborne particles that remain suspended for extended periods.

Consequence: Chronic respiratory diseases, lung cancer, reduced lung function, and premature death from silica-related diseases.

Chemical Exposure

high

Contact with stains, sealants, solvents, and finishes containing volatile organic compounds causes skin irritation, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions. Some products contain flammable solvents posing additional fire risks.

Consequence: Skin burns, respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and potential long-term health effects from chemical exposure.

Fire and Explosion Risks

medium

Flammable solvents, stains, and finishes present ignition hazards when used near heat sources, sparks, or in poorly ventilated areas where vapors can accumulate and reach explosive concentrations.

Consequence: Fires, explosions, burns, property damage, and potential fatalities from chemical ignition.

Noise Exposure

medium

Sanding equipment and dust extraction systems generate high noise levels (90-110 dB) that can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss without proper protection and controls.

Consequence: Noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, communication difficulties, and increased accident risk.

Vibration Injuries

medium

Prolonged use of sanding equipment transmits vibration through hands and arms, causing hand-arm vibration syndrome with vascular and neurological damage, loss of sensation, and reduced grip strength.

Consequence: Permanent nerve damage, loss of manual dexterity, chronic pain, and inability to perform fine motor tasks.

Dust and Particulate Matter

medium

Sanding operations generate large quantities of wood dust and particulates that can irritate eyes, skin, and respiratory systems, particularly when working in enclosed spaces.

Consequence: Respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, eye irritation, and potential long-term lung conditions.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Integrated Dust Extraction Systems

Engineering

Implement HEPA-filtered dust extraction systems that capture silica dust and wood particulates at the source during sanding operations to prevent airborne dispersion.

Implementation

1. Install HEPA vacuum systems rated M-Class or H-Class for silica dust 2. Position vacuum nozzles close to sanding surfaces for effective capture 3. Use continuous dust extraction during all sanding operations 4. Maintain vacuum system filters and change regularly 5. Empty vacuum systems in controlled areas to prevent dust release 6. Monitor dust extraction system performance throughout work

Ventilation and Air Quality Control

Engineering

Provide adequate ventilation and air quality monitoring to control chemical fumes and ensure safe working conditions during finishing operations.

Implementation

1. Install exhaust fans or provide cross-ventilation during chemical work 2. Monitor air quality for VOC levels during finishing operations 3. Use local exhaust ventilation for confined application areas 4. Provide clean air zones for breaks and rest periods 5. Test ventilation effectiveness before commencing work 6. Implement work rotation for extended chemical application tasks

Safe Chemical Handling and Storage

Administrative

Establish safe chemical handling procedures including proper storage, labeling, and spill containment to prevent exposure and environmental contamination.

Implementation

1. Review Safety Data Sheets for all chemical products before use 2. Store chemicals in approved containers with proper labeling 3. Implement spill containment procedures and cleanup kits 4. Train workers on chemical hazards and emergency procedures 5. Use water-based products instead of solvent-based where possible 6. Monitor chemical inventory and expiry dates

Anti-Vibration Tools and Practices

Engineering

Select low-vibration sanding equipment and implement vibration-dampening measures to reduce hand-arm vibration exposure and prevent vibration injuries.

Implementation

1. Choose sanding equipment with vibration-dampening features 2. Use anti-vibration gloves during extended sanding work 3. Implement work rotation between sanding and other tasks 4. Maintain sanding equipment to minimize vibration 5. Monitor vibration exposure times for operators 6. Provide vibration-free rest periods for workers

Fire Prevention and Control

Administrative

Implement fire prevention measures including proper storage of flammable materials, elimination of ignition sources, and emergency response procedures.

Implementation

1. Store flammable chemicals in approved cabinets away from heat sources 2. Eliminate ignition sources (smoking, sparks, electrical hazards) during work 3. Provide fire extinguishers suitable for chemical fires 4. Develop emergency evacuation procedures for chemical fires 5. Train workers on fire prevention and response 6. Monitor for vapor buildup in enclosed spaces

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE

Provide comprehensive PPE for silica dust, chemical exposure, vibration, and general construction work during timber floor sanding and finishing.

Implementation

1. Issue P2 or higher respiratory protection for silica dust work 2. Provide chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing 3. Supply safety glasses with side protection and anti-fog coating 4. Ensure steel-capped safety boots are worn at all times 5. Provide hearing protection for noisy equipment 6. Supply high-visibility vests for site work

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Personal protective equipment

Respiratory Protection

Requirement: P2 particulate respirator or higher, meeting AS/NZS 1716 standards

When: Required for all sanding operations and chemical application work

Chemical-Resistant Gloves

Requirement: Nitrile gloves rated for chemical contact and solvent resistance

When: Required when handling stains, sealants, solvents, and finishing products

Safety Glasses/Goggles

Requirement: Impact-resistant eyewear meeting AS/NZS 1337 with anti-fog coating

When: Required for all sanding, cutting, and chemical application work

Hearing Protection

Requirement: Ear muffs or plugs rated for 25-30 dB noise reduction

When: Required when operating sanding equipment over 85 dB

Protective Clothing

Requirement: Long pants, long sleeves, and chemical-resistant apron

When: Required during chemical application and staining work

Steel-Capped Safety Boots

Requirement: Boots meeting AS/NZS 2210.3 standards with chemical resistance

When: Required at all times on construction sites

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

✓Test timber for silica content and document results
✓Inspect all sanding and finishing equipment for safety features
✓Verify dust extraction and ventilation systems are operational
✓Review Safety Data Sheets for all chemical products
✓Check availability of spill containment and cleanup materials
✓Confirm proper storage of flammable chemicals
✓Assess site ventilation and establish work zones
✓Check weather conditions for outdoor ventilation requirements

During work

✓Monitor airborne silica dust levels continuously
✓Check dust extraction systems remain effective during sanding
✓Inspect sanding equipment for vibration levels and overheating
✓Verify proper mixing and application of chemical products
✓Monitor worker fatigue and implement rest breaks
✓Check for vapor buildup and ensure adequate ventilation
✓Observe safe tool operation and handling practices
✓Ensure exclusion zones are maintained during curing

After work

✓Inspect completed floor finish for quality and uniformity
✓Verify proper disposal of silica-contaminated waste and chemicals
✓Check all equipment has been properly cleaned and stored
✓Document any incidents or chemical exposures during work
✓Conduct final safety walkthrough of the work area
✓Ensure proper ventilation before allowing re-occupancy
✓Complete all required documentation and reporting
✓Review work procedures for improvement opportunities

Step-by-step work procedure

Give supervisors and crews a clear, auditable sequence for the task.

Field ready

Site Assessment and Preparation

Conduct comprehensive site evaluation, test timber silica content, and establish dust control and ventilation systems for sanding and finishing operations.

Safety considerations

Identify all chemical hazards and ensure adequate dust control and ventilation are established before commencing work.

Dust Control and Safety Setup

Set up HEPA dust extraction systems, establish ventilation, and prepare spill containment materials for chemical handling during the finishing process.

Safety considerations

Test all dust control systems and ensure emergency equipment is accessible before starting sanding operations.

Sanding Operations

Perform mechanical sanding operations using appropriate grit progression with continuous dust extraction and vibration controls. Work systematically across the floor surface.

Safety considerations

Maintain continuous dust control, monitor equipment vibration, and take regular breaks to prevent hand-arm vibration syndrome.

Chemical Application

Apply stains, sealants, and finishes using proper application techniques with adequate ventilation and personal protective equipment. Work in controlled sections.

Safety considerations

Wear appropriate chemical-resistant PPE, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid skin contact with finishing products.

Curing and Quality Control

Allow finishes to cure according to manufacturer specifications, monitor drying conditions, and inspect the completed finish for quality and uniformity.

Safety considerations

Maintain proper ventilation during curing and restrict access to wet finishes to prevent slips and contamination.

Cleanup and Waste Disposal

Clean work area thoroughly, dispose of silica-contaminated dust and chemical waste according to regulatory requirements, and perform equipment maintenance.

Safety considerations

Handle silica-contaminated waste as hazardous material and ensure proper containment to prevent environmental contamination.

Documentation and Handover

Complete all required documentation including exposure monitoring records, chemical usage logs, and provide care instructions for the finished timber floor.

Safety considerations

Ensure all documentation is complete and stored securely for regulatory compliance and future reference.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica during sanding?

The Australian workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is 0.05 mg/m³ over an eight-hour time-weighted average. This limit must not be exceeded during timber sanding operations.

How can silica dust be controlled during timber floor sanding?

Silica dust can be controlled through HEPA vacuum dust extraction systems that capture dust at the source, proper ventilation, and respiratory protection. Wet sanding methods and low-dust sandpaper can also reduce exposure.

What are the safest types of timber floor finishes to use?

Water-based finishes are safer than solvent-based products as they contain fewer volatile organic compounds and are less flammable. They provide similar durability with reduced health and fire risks.

How should flammable solvents be stored during timber finishing?

Flammable solvents must be stored in approved flammable liquid cabinets away from heat sources, sparks, and ignition sources. Containers should be properly labeled and stored in well-ventilated areas.

What respiratory protection is required for timber sanding?

A minimum P2 particulate respirator is required for silica dust, but higher protection (P3) may be needed depending on dust concentration. Full-face respirators with P3 filters are recommended for high dust conditions.

How should silica-contaminated sanding dust be disposed of?

Silica-contaminated dust must be contained to prevent airborne release, bagged securely, and disposed of through licensed waste management services following local environmental regulations.

Overview

Timber floor sanding and finishing involves mechanical sanding of hardwood floors followed by application of stains, sealants, and protective coatings. This work includes rough sanding to remove old finishes, fine sanding for smoothness, chemical application, and curing processes performed in residential, commercial, and institutional settings. The work generates significant dust and chemical hazards requiring comprehensive control measures.

Why This SWMS Matters

Timber floor sanding and finishing presents severe health risks including silica dust inhalation causing silicosis and lung cancer, chemical exposure from solvents and finishes, and fire hazards from flammable materials. Australian WHS statistics show construction workers face elevated risks from silica exposure and hazardous chemicals. This SWMS ensures compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Managing Respirable Crystalline Silica Code of Practice. Implementation prevents chronic diseases, ensures quality finishes, and protects workers from irreversible health damage while demonstrating PCBUs' duty of care.

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