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WHS Management for Flexographic Printing

Manage solvent exposure, web entanglement risks, and anilox roller hazards in flexographic printing and packaging operations.

Flexographic printing is the dominant process for packaging, labels, and flexible film printing in Australia, and it presents a hazard profile driven by high-speed web handling, volatile solvent-based inks, and heated drying systems. Solvent vapour concentrations in flexographic press rooms can be significant, particularly during ink changes, press wash-ups, and anilox roller cleaning. Web entanglement at speeds exceeding 300 metres per minute creates severe laceration and amputation risks. The WEL reductions for styrene and IPA arriving in December 2026 will directly affect flexographic operations using these substances. A structured WHS management plan ensures your flexographic operation addresses chemical, mechanical, and thermal hazards under the WHS Regulation 2025.

Key Hazards

Solvent vapour exposure from fast-drying flexographic inksWeb entanglement and laceration at high press speedsAnilox roller nip point entrapment during cleaning and changeoverThermal burns from heated drying tunnels and exhaust systemsNoise exposure exceeding 85 dB(A) from high-speed web pressesChemical fire risk from solvent vapour accumulation in drying systems

Regulatory Requirements

HRCW Categories

Hazardous chemical exposure, work near powered mobile plant, flammable atmosphere

Section 26A Codes (binding 1 July 2026)
Managing Risks of Hazardous ChemicalsManaging Risks of Plant in the WorkplaceManaging Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss

SWMS Required

Press Operation →Ink Mixing →Solvent Handling →Web Threading →Cleaning Press Components →

Related Sectors

Packaging ConvertingOffset PrintingUv Curing

Need Help with Flexographic Printing WHS?

We help flexographic printing businesses develop compliant WHS systems covering solvent exposure controls, press guarding, and web handling safety procedures.

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