Safe Operating Procedures

    Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template

    Handling epoxy resins requires strict safety protocols to manage chemical hazards. Download our free Safe Operating Procedure for epoxy mixing to get started.

    September 18, 20264 min read12 viewsLast reviewed September 2026Licensing terms (PDF)

    Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template

    DOCX • 126 KB + PDF

    Updated Oct 2026

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    Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template — document preview

    Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template

    Working with epoxy resins introduces significant health risks, including skin sensitisation, dermatitis, and respiratory issues from vapours. This Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template provides a structured framework for documenting the essential steps to manage these hazards effectively.

    It guides you in outlining critical safety information, from required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to emergency response and waste disposal, ensuring a consistent and safe approach to the task every time.

    Using a standardised SOP helps your organisation meet its duty of care by providing clear, accessible instructions to workers. It formalises the risk assessment process, demonstrating a proactive approach to workplace health and safety.

    The document serves as a vital training tool for new employees and for refresher training, embedding a strong safety-first culture. A well-developed procedure reduces the likelihood of incidents, protects workers from long-term health effects, and supports a more efficient workflow by removing ambiguity.

    Video walkthrough

    How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Epoxy Mixing) Template

    This document is a comprehensive starting point, designed to be adapted to your specific operational context. Download the DOCX or PDF and begin by reviewing each section.

    The most critical step is to populate the template with details specific to your workplace, including the exact brand and type of epoxy resin being used, the mixing equipment, and the unique layout of the work area. Always reference the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product to ensure all chemical-specific hazards, handling instructions, and first aid measures are accurately captured.

    Involve workers who perform the task in the customisation process to ensure the SOP is practical and reflects on-the-ground realities. Once finalised, the SOP should be integrated into your broader WHS management systems, making it a living document that is reviewed regularly and updated whenever processes or products change.

    Remember to provide training on the finalised SOP before it is implemented.

    Important Note on Customisation

    This is a template and not a complete Safe Operating Procedure. It is essential that you customise this document to align with the specific risks present in your workplace, the chemicals in use, and your existing safety procedures.

    We are not liable for any incidents that may occur from the use of this template. It is your responsibility to ensure the final document is accurate and suitable for your business needs.

    When to use this Safe Operating Procedure

    This Safe Operating Procedure should be used before any task involving the mixing of two-part epoxy systems. It is not just a document for display; it is an active tool for task planning and execution.

    It should be consulted during worker inductions, task-specific training sessions, and as a prerequisite for any worker newly assigned to epoxy mixing tasks. Supervisors should use it as a checklist to confirm all safety controls are in place before work commences.

    Furthermore, the SOP is a key reference during incident investigations and regular safety audits. A periodic review, which can be part of a formal WHS compliance auditing schedule, ensures the procedure remains relevant and effective against emerging risks or changes in legislation.

    Use it as a benchmark for observing work practices and providing constructive feedback to workers.

    Who should use this Epoxy Mixing SOP

    This Safe Operating Procedure is intended for a range of personnel within an organisation:

    • Workers and Operators: As a direct, step-by-step guide for performing the task safely. It empowers them to understand the risks and the controls needed to protect their health.
    • Supervisors and Team Leaders: For training their teams, conducting pre-start checks, and monitoring adherence to safety protocols. It provides an objective standard for performance.
    • WHS Managers and Advisors: As a tool to ensure systematic risk management for hazardous chemicals. They are typically responsible for developing, reviewing, and integrating the SOP into the overall safety system.

    A complete safety system often involves documenting procedures for all hazardous tasks and equipment. For example, if moving large drums of resin with machinery, referencing our FREE Telehandler SOP Template can ensure that part of the process is also managed safely.

    Maintaining a safe workshop environment involves controlling hazards from multiple sources. While this SOP addresses chemical risks, physical hazards from equipment also require formal procedures.

    You may find our Free Air Compressor SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template useful for managing risks associated with common workshop tools.

    Similarly, fabrication or finishing work that follows epoxy application might involve other high-risk tools. Ensuring procedures are in place for all steps is crucial, and resources like a FREE Circular Saw SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template can help build out your safety documentation.

    You can explore our complete free WHS resources library for more templates to support your safety management system.

    Common mistakes

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Not consulting the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the specific epoxy product being used.
    • Using incorrect or insufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), especially gloves and respirators.
    • Working in a poorly ventilated area, leading to high concentrations of harmful vapours.
    • Incorrectly measuring resin and hardener ratios, which can affect the structural integrity and chemical safety of the cured product.

    Legal references

    Legal considerations

    The following legal requirements may be relevant to this type of work.

    • Work Health and Safety Act (Harmonised) — Provides the primary duties for protecting workers and other people from work health and safety risks.
    • Work Health and Safety Regulations (Harmonised) — Sets out requirements supporting the management of workplace hazards and risks.

    The following codes may be relevant to this type of work.

    • Managing WHS Risks Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on identifying hazards, assessing risks and applying effective controls.
    • Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on consulting workers and coordinating with other duty holders.
    • Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on safe work environments, workplace facilities and related controls.

    Did you know

    Epoxy Sensitisation

    Epoxy sensitisation is an allergic reaction that can develop over time with repeated exposure. Once a person is sensitised, even tiny exposures can trigger severe dermatitis or respiratory issues, often preventing them from ever working with the material again.

    Exothermic Reactions

    Mixing large quantities of epoxy resin and hardener generates significant heat in an 'exothermic reaction'. If unmanaged in a confined container, this heat can build up, causing the mixture to smoke, foam, or even ignite.

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    01What PPE is required for mixing epoxy?
    At a minimum, you will need chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or butyl), safety glasses or goggles, and long-sleeved clothing. A respirator with organic vapour cartridges is often required, especially in areas with limited ventilation. Always consult the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific PPE recommendations.
    02Why is ventilation so important when working with epoxy?
    Epoxy resins and hardeners release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, and long-term health effects like occupational asthma. Good ventilation, such as local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or working outdoors, is critical to keep vapour concentrations below exposure limits.
    03How do I dispose of leftover mixed epoxy?
    Never pour liquid epoxy down the drain. The best practice is to mix small leftover amounts of resin and hardener, allow them to fully cure into an inert solid, and then dispose of them as general solid waste. Always check with your local council for specific waste disposal regulations.
    04Can I use this SOP template for any type of epoxy?
    No, this is a general template. You must customise it using the specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the epoxy product you are using, as hazards, mixing ratios, cure times, and PPE requirements vary significantly between products.

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    How To Use It

    1. 1Download and open in Word or PDF.
    2. 2Replace the placeholders with your business details.
    3. 3Get it reviewed by a WHS specialist before rollout.
    Get a document review

    Need it customised?

    Our WHS consultants can adapt this template to your site, run a gap analysis, or audit what you already have in place.

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