FREE Excavator SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
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Purpose of an Excavator SOP
Excavator SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for excavator use. Excavator 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
Excavator 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 excavator SOPs during the induction or onboarding process. 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 excavator SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Excavator 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 an excavator?
An excavator is a heavy construction machine that comprises of a boom, dipper (or stick), bucket, and cab on a rotating platform.
What is an excavator used for?
Excavators are vital for tasks such as digging trenches or foundations, demolition, mining, dredging rivers or heavy lifting. They also have a range of attachments, such as augers to complete a range of different tasks.
What hazards are involved in excavator use?
Some hazards that are involved in excavator use include:
- Tip-overs
- Falls
- Strikes
- Power lines
- Crushing
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during excavator use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Operator training
- Harnesses
- Wearing PPE
- Regular maintenance
Did you know?
Did you know that the first conceptual design of an excavator dates back to the 1830s with the patent of William Smith Otis’ ‘steam shovel’, the earliest mechanically driven excavator? It wasn’t until the mid-20th century, after significant World War II-related advances in hydraulics and technology, that the modern, sleeker hydraulic excavators took over, revolutionizing construction with their power and versatility.
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/>