FREE Drill Press SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
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Purpose of Document
Drill Press SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for drill press use. Drill Press 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
This Drill Press SOP 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 this document 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 Drill Press SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Drill press 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 drill press?
A drill press is a stationary machine equipped with a vertically mounted drill bit.
What is a drill press used for?
It’s used for precisely drilling holes into various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic.
What hazards are involved in using a drill press?
Some hazards that are involved in drill press use include:
- Entanglement
- Contact with moving parts
- Flying debris
- Electric shock
- Slips and falls
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during drill press use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Wearing PPE
- Installing machine guards
- Secure workpiece
- Safe procedures, maintenance
- Emergency stop button
- Operator training
Did you know?
The drill press, a staple in modern workshops, has a rich historical lineage dating back to ancient times. While the concept of drilling holes has been around for millennia, the first mechanized drill press can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where it was powered by water or wind. However, it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century that the drill press saw significant advancements, becoming a vital tool in manufacturing and fabrication processes. Today, the drill press continues to evolve, offering precision and efficiency in various industries, from woodworking to metalworking.
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/>