FREE Cherry Picker SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Cherry Picker SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Cherry Picker SOP
Cherry picker SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for cherry picker use. Cherry picker SOPs 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
Cherry picker 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 cherry picker 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 cherry picker SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Cherry picker 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 cherry picker?
A cherry picker is an aerial lift device consisting of a bucket or platform at the end of a hydraulic lifting system, often mounted on a truck or a stand-alone trailer.
What is a cherry picker used for?
Cherry pickers are used to elevate workers to reach high-up places safely, such as power lines, tall trees, or the exterior of buildings, for maintenance, installation, or pruning tasks.
What hazards are involved in cherry picker use?
Some hazards that are involved in cherry picker use include:
- Electrocution
- Falls
- Collisions
- Crushing
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during cherry picker use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Wearing PPE
- Operator training
- Waring harnesses or restraints
Did you know?
Originally developed for picking fruit in orchards, cherry pickers have evolved into essential tools for many industries and now include features like telescopic arms, articulating boom lifts for precise positioning, and even uninterruptible power supplies to ensure the platform can be lowered safely in the event of engine failure. They enable performance of work at height without the risks associated with climbing ladders or assembling scaffolding, radically improving both efficiency and safety.
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/>