From 8 April 2025 a new compliance code for Metal Casting will come into effect. This Code provides practical guidance to duty holders about how to comply with their duties under the OHS Act and Regulations in relation to managing health and safety risks associated with metal casting work. It replaces the Foundries Compliance Code.
The Metal Casting Code includes information about identifying metal casting hazards and managing the risks associated with the metal casting process. It was developed by WorkSafe in consultation with employers and employees in the metal casting industry.
While the guidance provided in the Code is not mandatory, a duty holder who complies with the Code will – to the extent it deals with their duties or obligations under the OHS Act and OHS Regulations – be taken to have complied with those duties or obligations.
The Code expands considerably on the information provided by the now outdated Foundries compliance code and includes detailed guidance and suggested controls for such hazards as –
- Molten metal explosions
- Heat illness
- Hot surfaces, radiation and splashes
- Light radiation
- Hazardous substances
- Lead, Crystalline silica and other hazardous substances
- Industrial waste
- Electricity, and more
The hazards associated with the metal casting process are addressed in detail, including the individual tasks of –
- Design and pattern making
- Mould and core making
- Charging metal into the furnace
- Adding substances to molten metal
- Skimming dross
- Moving castings
- Secondary processes – fettling
- Testing and product evaluation
- Reclaiming materials, and more
It is recommended that employers in the metal casting industry refer to the compliance code in managing the health and safety of their employees. HSRs may cite the compliance code in a PIN when providing directions on how to remedy an alleged contravention of the OHS Act or Regulations.
Read more: WorkSafe Victoria | Metal Casting Compliance Code