Printing

WHS Management for Packaging & Converting

Manage die cutting, guillotine, laminating, and adhesive exposure hazards across packaging converting operations.

Packaging converting combines printing with finishing processes including die cutting, guillotine trimming, laminating, folding, and gluing — each introducing mechanical hazards that compound the chemical risks already present in the printing process. Die cutters and guillotines present amputation risks that remain among the most severe injury types in Australian manufacturing. Laminating and gluing operations use adhesives containing solvents and isocyanates that require atmospheric monitoring and health surveillance. The scale and speed of packaging converting lines, often running continuously across multiple shifts, amplifies exposure durations and fatigue-related risks. A comprehensive WHS management plan ensures your converting operation addresses the full spectrum of mechanical, chemical, and psychosocial hazards.

Key Hazards

Amputation risk from die cutting and guillotine operationsSolvent and adhesive vapour exposure during laminating and gluingNip point entanglement on laminating rollers and folding machinesManual handling injuries from heavy board and substrate handlingNoise exposure from high-speed converting machineryFatigue and psychosocial risks from continuous shift operations

Regulatory Requirements

HRCW Categories

Hazardous chemical exposure, hazardous manual tasks, work near powered mobile plant

Section 26A Codes (binding 1 July 2026)
Managing Risks of Hazardous ChemicalsManaging Risks of Plant in the WorkplaceHazardous Manual Tasks

SWMS Required

Die CuttingGuillotine OperationSolvent HandlingPress Operation

Related Sectors

Flexographic PrintingOffset PrintingDigital Printing

Need Help with Packaging Converting WHS?

We help packaging converters develop compliant WHS systems covering die cutter guarding, adhesive exposure controls, and manual handling risk management.

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