Equipment, Tools, and Safety Practices
Domain 7 tests safe practice with hand tools, powered equipment and site hazards under the general duty to provide a workplace free of recognised hazards. Expect PPE selection, machine guarding, chainsaw and mower behaviour, fuel and electrical safety, and trenching rules.
Equipment discipline
Read the manual and match the tool to the task. Inspect before use: guards in place, blades sharp, cords undamaged, fluids at level. On a chainsaw, the chain brake, low-kickback chain and correct sharpening reduce kickback; hold with both hands, never cut above shoulder height, and keep the bar tip clear. Mowers discharge at high speed - keep bystanders about 15 m away, never remove discharge guards, and never reach under a running deck. On slopes, mow across the face with a walk-behind or use a machine rated for the gradient; ROPS and seat belts apply to ride-ons. Fuel only in approved containers, engine off, no smoking, stored away from ignition sources.
PPE and hazard control
Eye, hearing, respiratory and hand protection as the task demands; chainsaw chaps and a helmet with face shield for saw work. Hearing protection is required once exposure reaches 85 dBA over eight hours. Control hazards in order: eliminate, substitute, engineer, administrate, then PPE.
Worked example
A crew must clear storm-damaged limbs near a fence. Reasoning: overhead and electrical hazards first - assume lines are live and keep at least 3 m from overhead conductors with tools. Establish an exclusion zone, wear helmet, eye and hearing protection and chaps, use a pole saw from the ground where possible, and never cut a limb under tension without a planned escape route.
Traps that cost marks
Loose clothing near a PTO or auger. A damaged extension cord without GFCI protection. Entering an unsupported trench deeper than 1.2 m. Working alone with a chainsaw without a communication plan.