Free Safe Operating Procedure (Airside GSE Parking) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Airside GSE Parking) Template

The airside environment of an airport is a complex and high-risk workplace. This free Safe Operating Procedure (Airside GSE Parking) Template provides a structured starting point for documenting the process of safely parking Ground Support Equipment (GSE) on aprons, tarmacs, and other operational areas.

A documented procedure is a critical control measure to prevent collisions with aircraft, other vehicles, and personnel, thereby minimising the risk of serious injury and costly equipment or infrastructure damage. Properly implemented, this SOP helps demonstrate your organisation's commitment to managing operational risks.

This procedure should form an integral part of your overall safety framework. Developing robust documentation is a key element of effective WHS management systems, ensuring that safe work practices are consistently communicated and applied across your entire ground operations team.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Airside GSE Parking) Template

This document is provided as a template in both DOCX and PDF formats. It is intended to be adapted to the specific requirements of your airport and the types of GSE you operate. To use it effectively:

• Download the DOCX file and save it to your local system.
• Review the content with your WHS committee, ground operations managers, and frontline workers who use the equipment daily.
• Customise the procedure by adding your company branding, specific site details (e.g., bay numbers, designated parking zones), and procedures for each type of GSE in your fleet.
• Pay special attention to emergency procedures, communication protocols, and reporting requirements.

Important: This is a template only and must be customised to your specific workplace. We are not responsible for the outcomes of its use.

You must consult with your workers and other stakeholders to ensure the final document is relevant and reflects the actual risks and control measures at your site. For example, your overall parking procedure might be supplemented by specific instructions detailed in a FREE Telehandler SOP Template for that particular piece of equipment.

When to use a Safe Operating Procedure for GSE Parking

A formal SOP for GSE parking should be a living document, used consistently throughout your operations. It is particularly important in the following scenarios:

• Worker Induction and Training: Use the SOP as a core training tool for all new ground crew, baggage handlers, and maintenance staff.
• Refresher Training: Conduct periodic reviews of the procedure with experienced staff to prevent complacency and reinforce safe behaviour.
• Post-Incident: The SOP should be immediately reviewed and updated following any incident or near-miss involving GSE parking.
• Introduction of New Equipment: When new types of GSE are introduced, the SOP must be updated to include their specific parking requirements.

Regularly verifying that these procedures are being followed correctly on the ground is also essential. This can be achieved through routine supervisor checks or more formal WHS compliance auditing activities that observe ground crew in their normal work environment.

Who should use this Safe Operating Procedure

This SOP is relevant to a wide range of personnel within the airport environment. Key users include:

• WHS and Safety Managers: Responsible for developing, implementing, and reviewing the procedure as part of the wider safety management system.
• Ground Operations Managers: Accountable for ensuring the procedure is followed by their teams on a day-to-day basis.
• Ground Crew and Baggage Handlers: The primary users of the procedure, who must understand and adhere to the specified steps for parking dollies, tugs, and belt loaders.
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineers: Who operate and park specialised maintenance equipment around aircraft.

For any heavy or specialised vehicles operating airside, ensure operators have the correct training and competency. This may involve referencing vehicle-specific procedures, such as those found in a FREE Body Truck SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template, to complement the general parking rules.

If you need expert assistance in tailoring this or other procedures, Spire Safety offers specialist WHS consulting to help you meet your obligations. You can also explore our full free WHS resources library for other useful templates and guides.