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Dust Extraction System SWMS

The dust extraction system is the single most important engineering control in any timber processing facility. Local exhaust ventilation must capture wood dust at every machine before it enters the worker's breathing zone, maintain it below the incoming 0.5 mg/m3 WEL, and discharge it safely without creating secondary explosion or environmental hazards. Dust extraction systems in timber facilities accumulate fine combustible dust that presents a genuine explosion risk when confined in ductwork, baghouses, and silos. The WHS Regulation 2025 requires LEV systems to be tested by a competent person at intervals not exceeding 14 months. This template covers operation, maintenance, and testing of timber dust extraction systems.

Legal Requirements

regulation

WHS Regulation 2025 Part 7.1 — Hazardous Chemicals; Part 4.4 — Dust Explosion Prevention

hrcw category

Work in a confined space (baghouse/silo entry for maintenance)

code of practice

Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace (binding 1 July 2026 under Section 26A)

section 26a binding

Yes — Hazardous Chemicals code binding July 2026. Non-compliance is admissible as evidence of breach.

Hazards

Hazard	Consequence	Likelihood
Wood dust accumulation exceeding WEL due to LEV failure	Nasal cancer (hardwood, IARC Group 1), respiratory disease	Possible
Dust explosion in baghouse, silo, or ductwork	Explosion, structural collapse, fatality	Unlikely
Oxygen depletion during baghouse or silo entry	Asphyxiation, loss of consciousness	Possible
Engulfment in dust silo during cleaning or maintenance	Suffocation, fatality	Unlikely
Fire from hot particle entering extraction system (spark from machine)	Filter fire, system damage, building fire	Possible

Controls (Hierarchy of Controls)

Test LEV system performance at every machine connection point at intervals not exceeding 14 months

Maintain minimum capture velocity at each machine hood per system design specification

Install spark detection and extinguishing system on main extraction duct

Install explosion venting on baghouse and silo per AS/NZS 1596

Implement confined space permit-to-work for all baghouse and silo entries

Conduct daily visual inspection of ductwork, blast gates, and collection points

Maintain housekeeping program to prevent settled dust accumulation on surfaces

Recent Prosecutions

SafeWork NSW v Timber Processor$200,000

Workers exposed to wood dust concentrations three times the exposure standard after dust extraction system was modified without re-testing. LEV had not been tested by competent person in over three years.

2023 — SafeWork NSW Prosecution Database

What Your SWMS Must Include

✓14-monthly LEV testing schedule with competent person requirements

✓Minimum capture velocity specification for each machine connection

✓Spark detection and fire suppression system maintenance schedule

✓Confined space entry procedure for baghouse and silo maintenance

✓Housekeeping schedule for settled dust removal from surfaces and ledges

Need a compliant Dust Extraction SWMS?

Our WHS consultants develop dust extraction SWMS with LEV testing protocols, explosion prevention controls, and housekeeping programs.