FREE Body Truck SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Body Truck SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Body Truck SOP
Body truck SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for body truck use. The SOP can also be used as a training and induction document. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness by outlining a safe system of work and providing adequate training and instruction. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
Body truck SOPs should be communicated to workers before they complete the task. A hard copy can also be displayed in the workplace or provided at the workface. You can also use body truck SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
NOTE: This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Workers should read and agree to comply with body truck SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Body truck SOPs should be developed by a competent person. The SOP is then read and followed by the worker completing the task. New workers should also read and understand the SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to have a documented Safe Operating Procedure (SOP). However, it is best practice, as having SOPs can assist in meeting general legal duties, including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(19)(3)d WHS Act – Duty to Ensure Safe Use of Plant
- s(19)(3)f WHS Act – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision
- s(39) WHS Regulations – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training and Instruction
- s(203) WHS Regulations – Management of Risks to Health and Safety (PCBUs with management or control of plant)
The Code of Practice “Managing risks of plant in the workplace” states that employers (PCBUs) must provide workers with information, training, and instruction as necessary to protect them from risks arising from the use of the plant.
FAQ’s
What is a body truck?
A body truck is a truck with a rigid frame and a cargo area or body that is fixed to the chassis. They are typically used for transporting goods that are either too large or heavy for smaller vehicles, or when the volume of goods requires the additional space that a body truck offers.
What is a body truck used for?
Body trucks are utilized in a myriad of services including package delivery, household moving, appliance and furniture transport, and construction material deliveries.
What hazards are involved in body truck use?
Some hazards that are involved in body truck use include:
- Rollovers
- Collisions
- Load shifts
- Blind spots
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during body truck use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Driver training
- Vehicle inspection
- Secure cargo
- Mirrors and cameras
Did you know?
Body trucks often feature in the background of bustling cityscapes, delivering essential items that keep businesses and services running smoothly. Innovations in body truck design have not only increased efficiency but also reduced environmental impact. Some trucks now boast hybrid or fully electric powertrains and are equipped with adjustable air suspension systems, allowing the loading dock to be raised or lowered to meet the dock level, thus minimizing the risk of damage during loading, and unloading. Additionally, their varied body types—from refrigerated and insulated to flatbed and box trucks—make them a versatile choice for different industry needs.
Article Sources and Further Reading
- Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-managing-risks-plant-workplace>
- Plant (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/plant>
- The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>
- What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>