Free Safe Operating Procedure (Aircraft Chocking) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Aircraft Chocking) Template

This Safe Operating Procedure for aircraft chocking provides a structured framework for outlining the required steps to secure an aircraft safely on the ground. Its primary purpose is to control the risk of unintended aircraft movement, which can lead to catastrophic damage to equipment, infrastructure, and personnel.

By establishing a clear, documented process, organisations can ensure consistency in operations, simplify training for ground crew and maintenance engineers, and demonstrate a commitment to workplace health and safety. A well-defined SOP is a fundamental component of a comprehensive WHS management system, helping to standardise safe work practices across all teams.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Aircraft Chocking) Template

This downloadable template is provided in both DOCX and PDF formats for your convenience. It is designed as a starting point, pre-filled with common sections relevant to aircraft chocking, including pre-operational checks, step-by-step procedures, and emergency responses.

To make it effective for your workplace, you must add specific details about your aircraft fleet, ground support equipment (GSE), and airport or aerodrome environment. A generic procedure is not sufficient; a robust SOP must reflect the unique risks and operational realities of your site.

The process of customising this document is a valuable opportunity to engage in consultation with your workers, ensuring the final procedure is practical and understood by those who will use it. While this template serves as a guide, you can also develop other critical documents, such as a Safe Operating Procedure for a telehandler, to cover all high-risk tasks in your operation.

Important Note on Customisation

This is a template and not a complete Safe Operating Procedure. It is essential that you customise this document to reflect the specific aircraft, equipment, personnel, and environmental conditions of your workplace.

We are not responsible for the outcomes of any actions taken based on the use of this template. You must consult with your team and conduct a thorough risk assessment to ensure the final SOP is suitable and effective for your site.

When is a Safe Operating Procedure for Aircraft Chocking Used?

An SOP for aircraft chocking should be applied every time an aircraft is parked and needs to be secured against movement. This includes several key operational phases:

• On Arrival: Immediately after the aircraft has come to a complete stop at the gate, bay, or parking stand, and before engines are shut down or passengers disembark.
• During Turnaround: While the aircraft is being serviced, loaded, or unloaded. The chocks provide primary protection against movement if the parking brake system fails or is inadvertently released.
• For Maintenance: When an aircraft is parked in a hangar or on the tarmac for scheduled or unscheduled maintenance. Tasks like engine testing or landing gear maintenance can create forces that require robust chocking. Using related procedures, such as a step ladder SOP for access, should also be standard practice during maintenance.
• Long-Term Parking: For aircraft stored for extended periods, where brake pressure may gradually be lost.

Regular reviews and updates to the SOP are necessary, especially after an incident, a change in fleet, or as part of scheduled WHS compliance auditing.

Who Should Use This SOP?

This Safe Operating Procedure is intended for all personnel involved in the movement and ground handling of aircraft. The primary users include:

• Ground Handling Crew: Staff responsible for marshalling, parking, and servicing the aircraft on the ramp.
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs): Technicians and mechanics who work on the aircraft while it is on the ground.
• Flight Crew: Pilots and co-pilots need to be aware of the chocking procedures to ensure safe coordination with ground staff.
• Supervisors and Team Leaders: Individuals responsible for overseeing ground operations and ensuring procedures are followed correctly.
• WHS Managers and Safety Officers: Professionals who develop, implement, and review safety management systems.

For organisations that need assistance integrating this SOP into their broader safety framework, accessing professional WHS consulting services can provide expert guidance and support. You can explore our complete free WHS resources library for more templates and guides to support your safety management efforts.