Polishing Operations

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document outlines safety protocols for polishing operations, addressing hazards such as respirable crystalline silica, slip risks, and electrical safety. It is crucial for workers and safety officers in the construction industry to implement these guidelines to prevent workplace injuries and ensure compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. By adhering to this SOP, organizations can safeguard their employees and maintain a safe working environment.

• Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) inhalation → silicosis, lung cancer (irreversible disease)
• Slip hazards from polishing slurry on the floor → fall injury
• Electric shock from leads contacting wet floor → fatality
• Entanglement with rotating discs/pads → severe laceration
• Noise exposure exceeding 85 dB(A) → hearing damage
• Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) from handheld polishers
• Disc/pad disintegration ejecting fragments → struck-by
• Manual handling injuries from heavy machine setup

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Part 4.1 Hazardous Chemicals; Part 3.1 Plant; Part 4.7 Electrical Safety
• Workplace Exposure Standard for Respirable Crystalline Silica — 0.05 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA)
• AS/NZS 60745 series — Hand-held motor-operated electric tools — Safety
• AS/NZS 1715 — Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment
• AS/NZS 1716 — Respiratory protective devices
• AS/NZS 3012 — Electrical installations — Construction and demolition sites
• AS/NZS 3760 — In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Respirable Crystalline Silica from Engineered Stone in the Workplace
• Safe Work Australia — Working with silica and silica containing products (Guide)
• Polishing Pre-Start Checklist (associated document)