Free Safe Operating Procedure (Grease Filter Change) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Grease Filter Change) Template

Changing grease filters in a commercial kitchen exhaust hood is a critical task for fire prevention, hygiene, and maintaining air quality. To help your organisation manage this process safely and effectively, we offer a free Safe Operating Procedure (Grease Filter Change) Template.

This document provides a structured framework, aligned with Australian WHS principles, for outlining step-by-step processes, identifying specific hazards, and implementing essential control measures. A well-documented SOP is a cornerstone of a safe system of work, helping to minimise risks such as fires, slips, and manual handling injuries.

The primary purpose of this template is to guide you in creating a site-specific SOP that formalises the procedure for your workplace. Key hazards addressed include slips on greasy floors, falls from height while accessing the canopy, cuts from sharp metal edges, manual handling strains from lifting filters, and exposure to cleaning chemicals.

Because this task often requires working at height, integrating safe ladder use is critical; you can document these specific controls using resources like our free Step Ladder SOP to supplement your procedure.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Grease Filter Change) Template

This document is a starting point. To make it effective, you must customise it to reflect the specific equipment, environment, and processes in your workplace.

Download the DOCX file and add details unique to your kitchen, including the make and model of your exhaust canopy, the specific types of filters used, the designated cleaning area, and the approved cleaning chemicals.

Important: We have provided a comprehensive but generic template. You must consult with your workers and adapt the content to your specific circumstances to ensure it is relevant and effective.

Add details about your emergency procedures, specific PPE requirements, and disposal methods for waste grease. Integrating such procedures is a key part of developing robust WHS management systems that protect your team and your business.

When to use it

A Safe Operating Procedure for changing grease filters should be used in several key situations. It is an essential training tool for new kitchen staff, apprentices, or any worker tasked with the job for the first time.

It should be readily accessible in the workplace as a practical on-the-job reference for workers to consult before and during the task. Furthermore, the SOP serves as a benchmark document during safety observations and for conducting internal WHS compliance auditing to verify that prescribed safe work methods are being followed consistently.

Who should use it

This SOP should be used by multiple roles within an organisation. Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs), restaurant owners, and facility managers are responsible for ensuring a safe system of work is in place.

Kitchen managers and head chefs should use the SOP to train, supervise, and monitor staff performance. Most importantly, the kitchen hands, cleaners, or maintenance staff who perform the filter change must be trained in the SOP and follow it every time.

It's also a valuable tool for WHS committees and representatives to review as part of ongoing risk management consultation. Having clear procedures for critical tasks and emergencies is vital, which is why your safety library may also include documents like our defibrillator operation procedure.

Managing Risks Associated with Grease Filter Maintenance

Beyond the procedure itself, managing the risks involves a holistic approach. This includes establishing a regular cleaning schedule based on kitchen usage to prevent excessive grease accumulation, which is a major fire hazard.

Ensure the designated cleaning area is equipped with proper drainage and non-slip flooring. All chemicals used must have a corresponding Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available, and workers must be trained in their safe use.

By documenting these elements in your SOP, you create a clear and defensible system that demonstrates your organisation's commitment to safety. For more ready-to-use templates and checklists, explore our complete free WHS resources library.