Free Safe Operating Procedure (Load Guiding) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Load Guiding) Template

Guiding suspended loads is a high-risk task that requires clear, documented procedures to protect workers. This free Safe Operating Procedure (Load Guiding) template provides a structured starting point for defining the approved, step-by-step process for controlling loads during lifting operations.

It helps your organisation detail critical safety measures, from pre-lift checks to communication protocols and emergency responses, minimising the risk of incidents caused by swinging, rotating, or uncontrolled loads.

A well-drafted SOP is essential for managing struck-by hazards, which are a leading cause of serious workplace injuries. By formalising procedures for tasks like using taglines, selecting exclusion zones, and using hand signals, you create a repeatable and trainable system of work.

This document is designed to complement other equipment-specific procedures, such as our free Telehandler SOP template, to form a more complete safety framework for your lifting activities.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Load Guiding) Template

This template is available as a fully editable DOCX file, allowing for complete customisation to your specific operational needs. To use it effectively, you must adapt the content to reflect your site's unique environment, equipment, personnel, and risk profile.

This involves consulting with workers and supervisors who perform the task to ensure the procedure is practical and addresses all relevant hazards.

Steps for implementation:

• Download: Get the DOCX or PDF version.
• Consult: Engage with your team, including doggers, riggers, crane operators, and supervisors, to gather input on current practices and risks.
• Customise: Modify the template by adding site-specific details, such as types of loads handled, communication equipment used, designated lift paths, and emergency contact information.
• Review and Approve: Have a competent person, such as a WHS manager or supervisor, review and formally approve the final document.
• Train: Ensure all relevant personnel are thoroughly trained on the finalised SOP and that their understanding is verified.

Important: This is a template only. We are not WHS consultants providing advice.

To supports your compliance efforts with WHS legislation, you must customise this document for your specific workplace, plant, and processes. It is a critical component for organisations committed to developing comprehensive WHS management systems.

When to use a Load Guiding SOP

A Safe Operating Procedure for load guiding should be used for any lifting operation where a suspended load requires manual control to prevent uncontrolled movement. This is particularly crucial in situations such as:

• Lifting in windy conditions.
• Moving loads with a large surface area.
• Operating in congested areas or near personnel.
• Placing loads with precision.
• Navigating loads through tight spaces or around obstacles.

Implementing this procedure ensures that a consistent, safe method is followed every time, reducing the potential for human error. The documented process can also serve as valuable evidence of your risk management activities during a WHS compliance audit.

Who should use it

This SOP is intended for use by a range of personnel within an organisation. Key users include:

• Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs): To meet their primary duty of care to provide and maintain a safe system of work.
• WHS Managers and Safety Officers: For developing, implementing, and reviewing safety documentation.
• Supervisors and Foremen: To enforce procedures, conduct pre-start meetings, and oversee lifting operations on-site.
• Workers: Specifically doggers, riggers, and designated spotters who physically perform the load guiding task. The SOP serves as their primary guide for safe work execution and training.

Effectively customising and implementing safety documents can be a complex process. If you require expert assistance in adapting this template or improving your overall safety framework, our WHS consulting services can provide tailored support.

You can also explore our extensive library of free WHS resources for other helpful templates and guides.