FREE Hand Trolley SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Hand Trolley SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Hand Trolley SOP
Hand trolley SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for hand trolley use. Hand trolley SOPs can also be used as a training and induction document. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness by outlining a safe system of work and providing adequate training and instruction. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
Hand trolley SOPs should be communicated to workers before they complete the task. A hard copy can also be displayed in the workplace or provided at the workface. You can also use hand trolley SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
NOTE: This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Workers should read and agree to comply with hand trolley SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Hand trolley SOPs should be developed by a competent person. The SOP is then read and followed by the worker completing the task. New workers should also read and understand the SOPs during the induction or onboarding process.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to have a documented Safe Operating Procedure (SOP). However, it is best practice, as having SOPs can assist in meeting general legal duties, including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(19)(3)d WHS Act – Duty to Ensure Safe Use of Plant
- s(19)(3)f WHS Act – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision
- s(39) WHS Regulations – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training and Instruction
- s(203) WHS Regulations – Management of Risks to Health and Safety (PCBUs with management or control of plant)
The Code of Practice “Managing risks of plant in the workplace” states that employers (PCBUs) must provide workers with information, training, and instruction as necessary to protect them from risks arising from the use of the plant.
FAQ’s
What is a hand trolley?
A hand trolley is a small L-shaped box-moving handcart with handles at one end, wheels at the base, and a small ledge to set objects on, flat against the floor when the hand trolley is upright.
What is a hand trolley used for?
Hand trolleys are used for moving heavy or bulky objects more easily by tilting the loaded trolley back and balancing the weight over the wheels, then steering it to the desired location.
What hazards are involved in hand trolley use?
Some hazards that are involved in hand trolley use include:
- Overexertion
- Trips
- Falls
- Crush incidents
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during hand trolley use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Load moderation
- Clear walkways
- Proper handling
- Wear PPE
Did you know?
Hand trolleys have been around in some form for centuries, simplifying the transport of heavy objects without motorised assistance. They are often engineered with ergonomics in mind, some with curved handles to reduce wrist strain and models with stair-climbing capabilities, using rotating wheels or tracks that make it easier to navigate steps. Innovatively, the design of hand trolleys hasn’t significantly changed over the years, yet their utility in reducing physical strain and improving efficiency in moving heavy items remains unmatched in many scenarios.
Article Sources and Further Reading
- Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-managing-risks-plant-workplace>
- Plant (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/plant>
- The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>
- What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>