Annual Hot Water Anode Replacement SWMS
Safe work method statement for the annual inspection and replacement of sacrificial magnesium anodes in hot water storage systems to prevent tank corrosion.
SWMS variants reference your state’s WHS legislation. Instant download after payment.
Annual inspection and replacement of sacrificial magnesium anodes in hot water storage systems prevents tank corrosion. Work involves isolating power and water, draining stored hot water, and removing/installing anode rods. Triggers WHS Regulation 2025 duties for thermal burns, manual handling, and electrical isolation in plumbing maintenance.
Hazards identified
3 hazards covered, sorted by priority.
Severe burns to skin and eyes
Electrocution or cardiac arrest
Back, shoulder strain or crush injury
Control measures
Hierarchy-of-controls order: elimination → substitution → isolation → engineering → administrative → PPE.
- 1Isolate electrical supply at switchboard, lock out, and verify dead before commencing any tank work.
- 2Close cold inlet, relieve pressure via TPR valve, and drain tank below anode port before removal.
- 3Use breaker bar with stable footing; two-person lift for anodes seized or over 15kg.
Applicable Codes of Practice
Mandatory standard for hot water system servicing
Isolation and lockout of electric storage units
What you receive
- ✓Editable DOCX SWMS template
- ✓State-specific WHS legislation schedule
- ✓Hazard register aligned to anode replacement
- ✓Worker sign-on and review register
Related legislation
- WHS Act 2011
- WHS Regulation 2025
- Plumbing Code of Australia