Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Templates — Australia

A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), also known as a Safe Operating Procedure or Safe Work Procedure (SWP), provides clear step-by-step instructions for performing a task safely and consistently. Australian WHS regulators use SOPs and SWPs interchangeably; both serve the same purpose under section 19 of the model WHS Act and AS/NZS ISO 45001.

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a written document required for 18 categories of High Risk Construction Work under WHS Regulation 291. An SOP is a generic, equipment- or task-specific procedure that applies anywhere the equipment is used — it is a procedural control under the Hierarchy of Controls. Many workplaces use the SOP as the source for the SWMS hazards and controls.

These SOPs are generic and align to the model WHS Act and Regulations adopted by NSW, QLD, ACT, SA, TAS, NT and WA, plus Victoria's OHS Act 2004 equivalent provisions. They reference the model framework and applicable Australian Standards rather than any one jurisdiction.

Yes. Every SOP is an editable Microsoft Word (.docx) document. Add your company logo, ABN, contractor details and site-specific information before issuing the SOP for use.

For some items (forklifts, EWPs above 11m, scaffolding above 4m, mobile cranes, dozers, dump trucks above 2,650 kg, excavators above 5 tonnes used in HRCW contexts, telehandlers, asbestos removal, electrical work, plumbing and truck driving) Australia requires a relevant high-risk-work licence, occupational licence or registration. The product page for each licensed item highlights the licence requirement; the SOP does not replace that licence.