FREE Disc Harrow SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template

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Disc Harrow SOP Example — Preview of the Disc Harrow SOP template — covering purpose, scope, responsibilities, pre-operation checks, the safe operating procedure, post-operation tasks and key hazards for disc harrow use.

Purpose of a Disc Harrow SOP

Disc harrow SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for disc harrow use. Disc harrow 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

Disc harrow 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 disc harrow 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 disc harrow SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.

Who Should Use

Disc harrow 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 disc harrow?

A disc harrow is a farm implement that consists of many steel discs that tills the soil where crops are to be planted.

What is a disc harrow used for?

Disc harrows are mainly used for soil preparation to create a smooth, levelled seedbed and to facilitate soil aeration and weed abatement.

What hazards are involved in disc harrow use?

Some hazards that are involved in disc harrow use include:

Entanglement
Projectiles
Overturns
Vibration

What are some safety controls that can be utilised during disc harrow use?

Some safety controls that can be utilised include:

PTO shielding
Safety signage
Wearing PPE
Operator training
Regular maintenance

Did you know?

Modern agricultural practices place an emphasis on minimal tillage for sustainability purposes. Disc harrows can often be adjusted to lightly turn the soil, thereby reducing erosion and promoting the conservation of organic matter within the topsoil.