Safe Work Method Statement

Stone Sealing

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Comprehensive safety procedures for stone sealing operations including natural stone, granite, marble, and travertine sealing. This SWMS addresses chemical exposure hazards, ventilation requirements, and spill containment for professional stone protection work.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Stone sealing involves the application of protective chemical sealants to natural stone surfaces including granite, marble, travertine, limestone, and sandstone. This process fills surface pores to prevent staining, enhance durability, and maintain aesthetic appearance. Work is performed using penetrating sealants, topical sealers, and impregnating products applied by brush, roller, or spray methods. Operations require careful chemical handling, adequate ventilation, and spill containment to protect workers from hazardous substances and ensure proper sealant performance.

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Why this SWMS matters

Stone sealing presents significant chemical exposure risks including inhalation of toxic fumes, skin contact with irritants, and fire hazards from flammable sealants. According to Safe Work Australia, hazardous chemical exposure affects thousands of workers annually. This SWMS ensures compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice. Implementation prevents chemical injuries, ensures proper ventilation and containment, and protects workers from long-term health effects while achieving high-quality stone protection results.

Reinforce licensing, insurance, and regulator expectations for Stone Sealing Safe Work Method Statement crews before they mobilise.

Hazard identification

Surface the critical risks tied to this work scope and communicate them to every worker.

Risk register

Chemical Exposure

high

Contact with stone sealants containing solvents, resins, and volatile organic compounds causes skin irritation, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions. Some sealants contain hazardous substances requiring careful handling.

Consequence: Skin burns, respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term health effects from chemical exposure.

Toxic Fumes and Vapors

high

Inhalation of sealant fumes and volatile organic compounds during application and curing causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, and long-term respiratory damage in poorly ventilated areas.

Consequence: Acute poisoning symptoms, chronic respiratory conditions, and neurological damage from prolonged exposure.

Slip and Trip Hazards

medium

Wet sealant application creates slippery surfaces, and spilled chemicals increase fall risks. Inadequate cleanup of spills and drips creates ongoing hazards.

Consequence: Slips and falls causing fractures, sprains, head injuries, and potential fatalities.

Fire and Explosion Risks

medium

Flammable solvents and sealants present ignition hazards when used near heat sources, sparks, or in poorly ventilated areas where vapors can accumulate.

Consequence: Fires, explosions, burns, and property damage from flammable chemical ignition.

Manual Handling Injuries

medium

Heavy sealant containers and equipment require lifting and carrying that can cause back strains and musculoskeletal injuries if not handled properly.

Consequence: Back injuries, hernias, shoulder strain, and long-term musculoskeletal conditions.

Inadequate Ventilation

medium

Poor ventilation during sealant application allows toxic fumes to accumulate, increasing exposure risks for workers and building occupants.

Consequence: Respiratory irritation, chemical poisoning, and long-term health effects from fume inhalation.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Ventilation and Air Quality Control

Engineering

Implement proper ventilation systems to control toxic fumes and ensure adequate air exchange during sealant application and curing.

Implementation

1. Install exhaust fans or provide cross-ventilation during sealant work 2. Use local exhaust ventilation for confined application areas 3. Monitor air quality for VOC levels during operations 4. Provide clean air zones for breaks and rest periods 5. Test ventilation effectiveness before commencing work 6. Implement work rotation for extended sealant application tasks

Chemical Handling and Storage

Administrative

Establish safe chemical handling procedures including proper storage, labeling, and spill containment to prevent exposure and environmental contamination.

Implementation

1. Review Safety Data Sheets for all sealants before use 2. Store chemicals in approved containers with proper labeling 3. Provide spill containment materials and spill kits 4. Train workers on chemical hazards and emergency procedures 5. Implement proper waste disposal procedures 6. Monitor chemical inventory and expiry dates

Safe Application Practices

Administrative

Implement controlled application procedures including test areas, proper equipment use, and supervision to minimize chemical exposure and application errors.

Implementation

1. Conduct test applications on small areas before full application 2. Use appropriate application equipment (brushes, rollers, sprayers) 3. Implement supervision for all sealant application work 4. Establish exclusion zones during application and curing 5. Monitor weather conditions for outdoor applications 6. Provide adequate curing time before allowing access

Spill Containment and Cleanup

Engineering

Provide spill containment systems and trained cleanup procedures to prevent chemical spread and exposure during accidents or drips.

Implementation

1. Use spill containment pallets for chemical storage 2. Provide absorbent materials and spill cleanup kits 3. Establish spill response procedures and training 4. Implement secondary containment for large applications 5. Label hazardous waste properly for disposal 6. Monitor for leaks and drips during application

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE

Provide comprehensive PPE for chemical exposure, respiratory protection, and skin contact prevention during stone sealing operations.

Implementation

1. Issue respiratory protection with organic vapor cartridges 2. Provide chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing 3. Supply safety glasses or goggles with anti-fog coating 4. Ensure steel-capped safety boots with chemical resistance 5. Provide high-visibility vests for site work 6. Supply emergency eyewash stations and safety showers

Emergency Response Planning

Administrative

Develop and implement emergency response procedures for chemical spills, exposures, and fire hazards during stone sealing work.

Implementation

1. Develop chemical spill response procedures 2. Provide emergency eyewash and shower facilities 3. Train workers on chemical exposure first aid 4. Establish emergency contact procedures 5. Provide fire extinguishers suitable for chemical fires 6. Document all emergency incidents and responses

Download complete control procedures

Personal protective equipment

Respiratory Protection

Requirement: Half-face or full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridges

When: Required for all sealant application and in areas with chemical fumes

Chemical-Resistant Gloves

Requirement: Nitrile or neoprene gloves rated for chemical contact

When: Required when handling sealants, solvents, and cleaning chemicals

Protective Clothing

Requirement: Chemical-resistant apron or suit covering arms and legs

When: Required during sealant application to protect skin from splashes

Safety Glasses/Goggles

Requirement: Chemical splash goggles meeting AS/NZS 1337

When: Required for all chemical handling and application work

Steel-Capped Safety Boots

Requirement: Chemical-resistant boots meeting AS/NZS 2210.3

When: Required at all times on construction sites

High-Visibility Vest

Requirement: Fluorescent material meeting AS/NZS 4602

When: Required when working near traffic areas or machinery

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

  • ✓Review Safety Data Sheets for all sealants and chemicals
  • ✓Test ventilation systems and air quality monitoring equipment
  • ✓Inspect spill containment materials and cleanup kits
  • ✓Check PPE condition and ensure proper fit for all workers
  • ✓Verify availability of emergency eyewash and shower facilities
  • ✓Assess site conditions and establish exclusion zones
  • ✓Confirm proper storage and labeling of chemicals
  • ✓Check weather conditions for outdoor applications

During work

  • ✓Monitor air quality and VOC levels continuously
  • ✓Check PPE condition and ensure continued proper wear
  • ✓Inspect application equipment for leaks and proper function
  • ✓Verify proper containment of spills and drips
  • ✓Monitor worker exposure times and rotation schedules
  • ✓Check ventilation system performance during application
  • ✓Observe proper chemical mixing and application techniques
  • ✓Ensure exclusion zones are maintained during curing

After work

  • ✓Inspect sealed surfaces for proper coverage and appearance
  • ✓Verify complete cleanup of chemicals and waste materials
  • ✓Check proper disposal of hazardous waste containers
  • ✓Document any incidents or chemical exposures during work
  • ✓Conduct equipment decontamination and storage
  • ✓Ensure work area ventilation before allowing re-occupancy
  • ✓Complete all required documentation and reporting
  • ✓Review work procedures for improvement opportunities

Step-by-step work procedure

Give supervisors and crews a clear, auditable sequence for the task.

Field ready
1

Site Assessment and Preparation

Conduct comprehensive site evaluation, review chemical requirements, and establish safety controls for stone sealing operations. Assess ventilation needs and establish work zones.

Safety considerations

Identify all chemical hazards and ensure adequate ventilation and spill containment are available before commencing work.

2

Ventilation and Safety Setup

Set up ventilation systems, spill containment, and safety equipment including eyewash stations and emergency access routes.

Safety considerations

Test ventilation effectiveness and ensure all safety equipment is operational before chemical handling begins.

3

Surface Preparation and Testing

Clean stone surfaces thoroughly and conduct absorption tests to determine appropriate sealant type and application rate.

Safety considerations

Use appropriate cleaning chemicals safely and ensure proper ventilation during surface preparation work.

4

Sealant Application

Apply stone sealants using appropriate methods (brush, roller, or spray) with proper PPE and ventilation controls. Work in controlled sections.

Safety considerations

Maintain proper ventilation, avoid skin contact, and work in teams for large applications. Monitor for signs of chemical exposure.

5

Curing and Protection

Allow sealant to cure according to manufacturer specifications, maintaining exclusion zones and protecting surfaces from foot traffic or contamination.

Safety considerations

Monitor curing process and maintain ventilation. Ensure proper signage for wet sealant areas to prevent slips.

6

Quality Inspection and Cleanup

Inspect sealed surfaces for proper coverage and appearance, then perform thorough cleanup of chemicals, equipment, and work areas.

Safety considerations

Handle chemical waste properly and ensure complete decontamination before site handover.

7

Documentation and Handover

Complete all required documentation including chemical usage records, safety inspections, and provide maintenance instructions to clients.

Safety considerations

Ensure all documentation is complete and stored securely for regulatory compliance and future reference.

Get risk assessment & procedures

Frequently asked questions

What are the main safety risks when applying stone sealants?

The primary risks include chemical exposure causing skin irritation and respiratory problems, toxic fumes from solvents, slip hazards from wet sealants, and fire risks from flammable chemicals. Proper ventilation, PPE, and spill containment are essential controls.

What type of respiratory protection is required for stone sealing?

A half-face or full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridges is typically required, depending on the sealant VOC content and ventilation conditions. Higher protection may be needed for spray applications or confined spaces.

How should chemical spills be handled during stone sealing?

Stop work immediately, contain the spill with absorbent materials, ventilate the area, and clean up using appropriate PPE. Dispose of contaminated materials as hazardous waste and document the incident for regulatory compliance.

What ventilation is required during stone sealant application?

Local exhaust ventilation or cross-ventilation is required during application to control VOC exposure. Air quality should be monitored, and workers should avoid working in confined spaces without proper ventilation systems.

How should stone sealants be stored safely?

Store in original containers with proper labeling in cool, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, sparks, and incompatible materials. Ensure containers are sealed and stored according to Safety Data Sheet requirements.

What emergency equipment should be available during stone sealing?

Eyewash stations, safety showers, spill cleanup kits, fire extinguishers suitable for chemical fires, first aid kits, and emergency contact information should be readily available during all stone sealing operations.

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Overview

Stone sealing involves the application of protective sealants to natural stone surfaces including granite, marble, travertine, limestone, and other porous stone materials. This work includes surface preparation, sealant application, and curing processes performed in residential, commercial, and hospitality settings. The work requires careful handling of chemical sealants and proper ventilation to protect both workers and occupants from hazardous fumes.

Why This SWMS Matters

Stone sealing presents significant chemical exposure risks including toxic fumes, skin irritation, and fire hazards from flammable sealants. Australian WHS statistics show that hazardous chemical exposure contributes to workplace injuries and illnesses. This SWMS ensures compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Hazardous Chemicals Code of Practice. Implementation prevents chemical injuries, ensures proper ventilation, and protects workers from long-term health effects while maintaining high-quality stone protection results.

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Risk Rating

BeforeHigh
After ControlsLow

Key Controls

  • • Pre-start briefing covering hazards
  • • PPE: hard hats, eye protection, gloves
  • • Emergency plan communicated to crew

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