FREE Injection Molding Machine SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
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Purpose of Document
Injection Molding Machine SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for injection molding machine use. Injection Molding Machine 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
This Injection Molding Machine SOP 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 this document 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 Injection Molding Machine SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Injection Molding Machine 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 an injection molding machine?
An injection molding machine is a manufacturing device used to produce plastic products by injecting molten plastic material into a mold cavity under high pressure and then cooling and solidifying it to form the desired shape.
What is an injection molding machine used for?
It’s commonly used in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, electronics, and medical devices for mass production of plastic parts with high precision and consistency.
What hazards are involved in using an injection molding machine?
Some hazards that are involved in injection molding machine use include:
- Entanglement
- Burns
- Exposure to chemical hazards
- Electric shock
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during injection molding machine use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Installing machine guard
- Operator training
- Regular maintenance
- Implementing lockout/tagout procedures
Did you know?
The injection molding machine, a key player in modern manufacturing, has a captivating history reshaping the production landscape. Developed in the 19th century, early iterations of injection molding machines were manually operated, limited in efficiency and precision. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that significant advancements propelled the technology forward. John Wesley Hyatt and his brother, Isaiah, pioneered the first practical injection molding machine in 1872, revolutionizing plastic manufacturing. Since then, injection molding machines have evolved with innovations in materials, design, and automation. Today, they are indispensable in mass-producing intricate plastic components across industries like automotive, electronics, and consumer goods, driving innovation and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
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/>