OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY MANUAL
8.
Section 8 – Safe Operating Procedures
Version:
02
Page:
1 of 2
Issue Date:
12 January 1999
Authorised by: Marjorie Dickenson
SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES
Safe operating procedures are written sets of instructions, which outline the steps involved in
performing a task as safely as possible. SimuLab’s Occupational Health and Safety Management
System requires all workplace procedures to have documented SOPS available to adequately
describe the ‘safe way to perform a task’. SOPS should be written by those responsible for
performing the task, in conjunction with their immediate supervisor. These should be trailed and
reviewed on a regular basis according to the procedures in the Simulab Risk Management
Procedure.
8.1.
Writing SOPS – A Guide
Use the following step-by-step information and Template to write all Simulab SOPS.
Task/Procedure
State the name of the task or the object of the procedure.
Scope
Gives explanation of the limits to which the procedure applies and details the likely work
locations, staff involved and tasks/procedures that it covers.
Definitions
Provides definitions of any new terms, or terms which may be unfamiliar to those who are
likely to use the SOP.
References
Lists any important reference material which might have been used to develop the SOP, or
which might aid in performing the SOP. It should also refer specifically to any SimuLab
policies that are used in preparation of the SOP.
Identified Hazards
Lists any known or potential hazards associated with the task/procedure.
Training / Qualifications
Outlines any training or qualifications that MUST be completed before performing the
task/procedure.
Description
Provides a detailed description of how the task/procedure should be undertaken. This should
be written preferably in point form, and plain English wherever possible. It should also
highlight the following aspects of the task/process:

The person/persons responsible for performing the task/procedure.

Details of the task and why it is performed.

How the task should be completed – listing all parts of the task, the sequence in which
the individual steps should be completed, the equipment and materials required.

Details of the safety equipment/hazard controls, which are required and how they
should be used in the task/procedure.

A list of the record keeping, which should be completed when completing the
procedure/task.
Any compulsory action should be clearly delineated with the word MUST.
Resources
Lists any equipment or materials (safety or otherwise), which are required to undertake the
task/procedure.
Communication Strategy
08-001
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY MANUAL
Section 8 – Safe Operating Procedures
Version:
02
Page:
2 of 2
Issue Date:
12 January 1999
Authorised by: Marjorie Dickenson
Details how the procedure will be communicated to users. For example, during induction or
followed during the process.
Review Date
Lists the date for review of SOP
Signature
Lists the signatures of those who sign off the procedure for use. Normally this will be the
supervisor and the work-group.
08-001