OH Consultant
🪓

Joinery / Cabinet Making SWMS Template

Safe Work Method Statement for joinery, cabinetry, and fit-out installation work

HRCW: Work at height if installing at heightHRCW: Hazardous substances (adhesives, finishes)
WHS Reg compliantPre-filled hazards & controlsPreview free, export PDF

What This SWMS Covers

This SWMS covers joinery and cabinet making work including workshop fabrication, on-site installation of cabinetry, benchtops, vanities, and built-in furniture, and associated finishing and trimming work.

Who Needs This SWMS

Joiners, cabinet makers, shopfitters, fit-out contractors, kitchen installers

Key Hazards & Control Measures

HazardRisk LevelControl MeasuresHierarchy
Woodworking machinery injuries (table saw, spindle moulder, router)CriticalGuards in place and functional, push sticks/jigs, emergency stop accessible, no loose clothing/jewellery, training and competency verifiedEngineering / Administrative
Timber dust inhalationSeriousDust extraction (LEV) on all machines, P2 RPE as backup, regular filter maintenance, WEL for hardwood dust 1 mg/m³, softwood 2 mg/m³Engineering / PPE
Contact adhesive / solvent exposureModerateVentilation, P2 + organic vapour RPE for spray application, low-VOC products where feasible, SDS reviewedEngineering / Substitution / PPE
Manual handling (benchtops, panels, assembled units)ModerateMechanical aids (trolleys, suction cups for glass), team lifts for heavy items, plan delivery route before liftingEngineering / Administrative

PPE Requirements

Safety boots (AS/NZS 2210)
Safety glasses (AS/NZS 1337)
P2 respirator for machining tasks
Hearing protection (AS/NZS 1270)
Gloves (not near rotating machinery)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is a SWMS required for joinery?
A SWMS is required when joinery work involves HRCW — such as installation at heights above 2m or work with hazardous adhesives/finishes. Workshop joinery is not HRCW but safe operating procedures are essential.
Q:What is the dust exposure limit for timber?
The WEL for inhalable hardwood dust is 1 mg/m³ and for softwood dust is 2 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA). Dust extraction on all machines is the primary control.

Build Your Joinery / Cabinet Making SWMS Now

Pre-filled hazards and controls for joinery / cabinet making work. Preview free, export when ready.