Victoria: the Metal casting code replaces the old Foundries code

WorkSafe Victoria’s Metal casting compliance code was published on 8 April 2025 and remains available on its official resource page.

Practical points

This code replaces the former Foundries compliance code. It addresses risks from molten metal, hot surfaces, noise, vibration, manual handling, mobile plant, fumes and dust.

Assess hazards before introducing products or processes. Controls should follow the hierarchy, considering substitution, isolation and engineering before relying on administrative measures or protective equipment. Check whether proposed controls create new risks and involve employees and HSRs in the decisions.

An illustrative workplace example

This topic is relevant to a correctional industry only if metal casting actually occurs; ordinary metal assembly is not automatically casting. For a hypothetical casting operation, use the current code to structure a specialist review of the process, workforce exposure and interaction with other workshop activities. This overview is not operating instructions.

Status and source

Following the code provides deemed compliance only for duties it covers. Other lawful methods are possible; the code does not replace legislation. General education, not individual legal or engineering advice.

Read the official WorkSafe resource page and complete official PDF.