Plant Risk Assessment Example
Example document for Plant Risk Assessment. Use this as a reference when creating your own.
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Document: Plant Risk Assessment
Example Document
Last updated 7/27/2026
Plant Risk Assessment
1. Plant Details
Company Name: Apex Constructions Pty Ltd Site/Location: 123 Smith Street, Parramatta NSW Date of Assessment: 15/10/2023 Assessor Name(s): J. Smith (Site Manager) Job Title: Site Manager
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Item/ID: Concrete Cutter 04 | |
| Make/Model: Stihl TS 420 | |
| Serial Number: 456789123 | |
| Plant Type: Hand held Power Tool (Cut Off Saw) | |
| Specific Task: Cutting concrete floor slabs during site preparation. |
2. Hazard Identification
| Hazard | Description of Hazard |
|---|---|
| 1. Noise | High noise levels above 95dB during cutting operation. |
| 2. Dust/Silica | Respirable crystalline silica dust generated during dry cutting. |
| 3. Kickback | Blade binds causing the saw to kick back towards the operator. |
| 4. Vibration | Hand Arm Vibration (HAV) causing long term nerve damage. |
| 5. Rotating Blade | Contact with the rotating blade causing severe lacerations or amputation. |
3. Risk Assessment
| Hazard | Likelihood (A-E) | Consequence (1-5) | Risk Rating (H/M/L) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Noise | E (Certain) | 3 (Moderate) | M |
| Dust/Silica | E (Certain) | 4 (Major) | H |
| Kickback | C (Possible) | 5 (Catastrophic) | H |
| Vibration | E (Certain) | 2 (Minor) | L |
| Rotating Blade | D (Likely) | 5 (Catastrophic) | H |
4. Risk Controls
| Hazard | Existing Controls | New/Additional Controls | Hierarchy Level | Residual Risk Rating (H/M/L) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dust/Silica | None | Use water suppression kit attached to saw. Class P2 respirator. | Engineering / PPE | L |
| Kickback | Operator training | Use saw with anti-vibration handle. Ensure blade is correct for concrete. Maintain sharp blade. | Engineering / Admin | M |
| Rotating Blade | None | Keep hands away from blade during restart. Use guard at all times. | Admin / Engineering | L |
| Noise | Earplugs | Enforce double protection (plugs + muffs) for long durations. | PPE / Admin | L |
| Vibration | None | Rotate operators every 30 mins. Anti-vibration gloves. | Admin / PPE | L |
5. Action Plan & Review
| Control Action | Who is Responsible | Target Date | Completed? | Date Reviewed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buy water suppression kit | J. Smith | 16/10/2023 | Yes | - |
| Issue P2 respirators | J. Smith | 16/10/2023 | Yes | - |
| Add Kickback warning to SWMS | J. Smith | 17/10/2023 | Yes | - |
6. Consultation
Names: M. Brown (Tradesperson), B. Wilson (Apprentice)
7. Sign Off
Signature: J. Smith Name: J. Smith Date: 15/10/2023
Review Date: 15/10/2024
Notes
This example identifies Silica Dust as a High Risk. The control selected is Engineering (water suppression) which is higher on the hierarchy than just PPE. This shows a compliant approach to WHS Regulations. Kickback is treated seriously due to the potential catastrophic consequence.
About this Example
Part of the Plant Risk Assessment document collection
Document Type
Plant Risk Assessment
A structured document used to identify and control risks associated with plant and equipment in the workplace to ensure compliance with Australian WHS laws.