Free Safe Operating Procedure (Ore Sorter) Template

Purpose of the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Ore Sorter) Template

This Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) for ore sorters provides a structured framework for documenting the required steps to operate this machinery safely. Using this free template helps your organisation manage WHS risks associated with ore sorting, such as exposure to moving parts, hazardous dust, noise, and potential radiation sources depending on the sorting technology.

Formalising procedures ensures that all operators, from new trainees to experienced workers, follow a consistent, safe method of work, which is a cornerstone of a robust safety management system.

An SOP clearly outlines pre-operational checks, step-by-step operating instructions, and shutdown procedures. It serves as a critical training tool and a reference point for daily operations, helping to minimise the risk of incidents and injuries.

Ore sorters are often integrated with other equipment like conveyor systems. For a comprehensive approach, consider downloading our FREE Conveyer System SOP to ensure seamless safety protocols across connected machinery.

How to use the Free Safe Operating Procedure (Ore Sorter) Template

This resource is provided as a fully editable DOCX file and a ready-to-print PDF. The DOCX version allows you to tailor the content directly to the specific make and model of ore sorter used at your site, as well as incorporate your company branding and specific operational details.

It is structured to align with Australian WHS practices and provides a solid foundation for your site-specific documentation.

Important: This is a template only. For it to be effective, you must customise it to reflect the unique hazards and control measures present in your workplace.

We recommend a competent person, such as a site supervisor or WHS manager, reviews and adapts the document in consultation with the machine operators. Once customised, it should be approved, and all relevant personnel must be trained on its contents.

Integrating this SOP into your broader WHS management systems ensures a consistent and documented approach to safety across your organisation. A well-implemented system helps demonstrate due diligence and fosters a proactive safety culture where risks are systematically identified and controlled.

When to use a Safe Operating Procedure

A Safe Operating Procedure for an ore sorter should be used consistently throughout the equipment's lifecycle. It is not a document to be filed away after induction. Key times to use the SOP include:

• Before every use: As a guide for conducting pre-start inspections to verify that the equipment is safe to operate and all guards are in place.
• During operator training: As the primary document for inducting and training new operators on the correct and safe use of the machinery.
• For refresher training: To reinforce safe work practices with existing operators on a regular basis.
• During maintenance planning: To understand the correct shutdown, isolation, and lock-out/tag-out procedures required before maintenance or cleaning can begin.
• After an incident or near miss: As part of an investigation to determine if procedural gaps contributed to the event, and to update the procedure accordingly.

Regular reviews are a key part of maintaining safety standards, which can be verified through a formal WHS compliance auditing process to ensure procedures are being followed correctly and remain effective.

Who should use this document

This document is intended for use by several key roles within a mining, quarrying, or mineral processing operation:

• Plant Operators: The primary users who must follow the procedure for every task involving the ore sorter.
• Supervisors and Site Managers: Responsible for ensuring operators are trained, deemed competent, and adhere to the documented SOP. They also oversee its implementation and regular review.
• WHS Managers/Advisors: Use the SOP as a tool for risk assessment, training development, and incident investigation. They often lead the development and review process.
• Maintenance Personnel: Must refer to the SOP for safe shutdown and isolation procedures before commencing any repair, cleaning, or maintenance work.

While this document is specific to ore sorters, similar principles apply to other heavy machinery. For example, operators of earthmoving equipment should follow documents like our FREE Grader SOP. Ancillary equipment also requires its own procedures, such as those covered in our Free Air Compressor SOP. You can find more templates in our free WHS resources library to build a comprehensive set of workplace procedures.