FREE Light Vehicle SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Light Vehicle SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Light Vehicle SOP
Light vehicle SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for light vehicle use. Light vehicle 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
Light vehicle 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 light vehicle 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 light vehicle SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Light vehicle 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 light vehicle?
A light vehicle in the context of industrial or workplace use refers to any small, roadworthy vehicle such as cars, pickup trucks, and small vans that are primarily used for transporting personnel, light cargo, or performing specific tasks within industrial complexes, mining operations, or facilities.
What is a light vehicle used for?
Light vehicles are often used for on-site transportation, enabling quick and efficient travel between various locations within a work site, carrying small equipment, or performing administrative tasks like delivering documents or gathering supplies.
What hazards are involved in light vehicle use?
Some hazards that are involved in light vehicle use include:
- Collisions
- Overturning
- Pedestrian incidents
- Speeding
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during light vehicle use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Driver training
- Vehicle maintenance
- Speed limits
- Safety signage
- Wearing PPE
Did you know?
Light vehicles may seem mundane compared to specialized industrial equipment, but in large worksites, they’re integral to maintaining smooth operations. In recent years, there’s been a significant push towards using electric light vehicles in industrial settings, reflecting broader trends in sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. These vehicles are not only quieter and emit no exhaust fumes – improvements that enhance the working environment – but they often come equipped with advanced safety features like collision avoidance systems, telematics for tracking, and maintenance alerts, which contribute greatly to workplace safety.
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/>