FREE Hay Rake SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Hay Rake SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Hay Rake SOP
Hay rake SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for hay rake use. Hay rake 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
Hay rake 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 hay rake 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 hay rake SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Hay rake 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 hay rake?
A hay rake is a mechanical tool used in agriculture for collecting cut hay or straw into windrows for later collection and turning over the cut material to help with drying.
What is a hay rake used for?
Hay rakes are used to gather loose hay into rows, turn hay for drying, and fluff up the hay, which enhances the drying process and results in better preserved forage.
What hazards are involved in hay rake use?
Some hazards that are involved in hay rake use include:
- Entanglement
- Punctures
- Lacerations
- Overturns
- Collisions
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during hay rake use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Installing guards and shields
- Operator training
- Signalling
- Regular maintenance
Did you know?
Early hay rakes were simple, hand-operated tools, but the mechanical versions that followed, such as the side-delivery rake, allowed for faster, more efficient operation. Today, innovative hay rakes are designed to be gentler on the crop to retain more leaves (nutritious parts) and are adjustable to fit different windrow sizes.
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/>