Chemical Handling & Hazardous Substances SWMS Templates

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) work is not listed in the 18 HRCW categories under WHS Reg 291, but it is a Schedule 10 restricted carcinogen and IARC Group 1 carcinogen. A SWMS is still strongly recommended, and Reg 381 mandates health surveillance for workers exposed above background levels. The Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals CoP requires written risk assessment, atmospheric monitoring against the WES (0.05 mg/m³ TWA, under review), and engineered controls — LEV, enclosure, and respiratory protection compliant with AS/NZS 1715/1716.

Under WHS Reg 347 and 348, a manifest is required when hazardous chemical quantities exceed Schedule 11 manifest thresholds — for example, 2,500 L of Class 3 flammable liquids or 5,000 L of LPG. Placarding thresholds are lower. The emergency services manifest must be kept in a designated location accessible to first responders, and the regulator must be notified once thresholds are exceeded. The Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals CoP Appendix C contains the full schedule.

An SDS (Safety Data Sheet) under WHS Reg 330 lists manufacturer-recommended controls — PPE, storage, first aid, spill response — for the substance in isolation. A SWMS translates those into task-specific controls for how your workers will actually use the chemical: ventilation arrangements at this site, decanting method, waste handling, interaction with other site hazards. Regulators expect both: the current SDS in the register (Reg 344) and a SWMS where HRCW or significant chemical risk applies.

PFAS is regulated as a hazardous chemical under WHS Reg 347 even though it is not a Schedule 10 carcinogen. PCBUs must apply the hierarchy of controls under the Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals CoP, alongside the National Environmental Management Plan (PFAS NEMP 3.0) for environmental discharge. Worker controls include dust suppression, dermal protection, decontamination facilities, and biological monitoring where exposure is reasonably foreseeable. State EPA notification is typically required before excavation of known contaminated land.

ADG Code 7.9 requires transport documentation, segregation, placarding, and driver licensing — but a SWMS is separately required under WHS Reg 291 if the loading, unloading or in-transit handling involves HRCW activities (confined spaces, plant interaction, energised systems). For routine DG cartage, a documented safe work procedure aligned with ADG Chapter 8 and the carrier's Fatigue and Load Restraint obligations is the regulator's minimum expectation; many principals contractually require a SWMS regardless.