FREE Rattle Gun SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template

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• Rattle Gun SOP.doc file (Word Document)
• Rattle Gun SOP.pdf file (PDF)

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Purpose of a Rattle Gun SOP

Rattle gun SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for rattle gun use. Rattle gun 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

Rattle Gun 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 rattle gun 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 rattle gun SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.

Who Should Use

Rattle gun 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 rattle gun?

A rattle gun, more commonly called an impact wrench, is a tool used for loosening or tightening nuts and bolts with a high torque output with minimal effort by the user. This name "rattle gun" comes from the rattling sound made by the hammering mechanism inside the tool when it is in operation.

What is a rattle gun used for?

Impact wrenches are widely used in many industries, including automotive repair, heavy equipment maintenance, product assembly, major construction projects, and any other instance where a high torque output is required.

What hazards are involved in rattle gun use?

Some hazards that are involved in rattle gun use include:

• Torque injuries.
• Noise.
• Flying debris.

What are some safety controls that can be utilised during rattle gun use?

Some safety controls that can be utilised include:

• Using correct size and type of socket.
• Wearing PPE.
• Ensuring firm grip and appropriate stance.
• Regularly inspect the tool for wear.
• Ensuring lubrication and maintenance.

Did you know?

The impact wrench was invented by Robert H. Pott of Evansville, Indiana. Patented in 1934, the air impact wrench quickly became an essential tool in automotive and assembly line work due to its effectiveness at speeding up tasks that previously required significant manual effort and time with a standard socket wrench. Today, impact wrenches come in a variety of sizes and styles, including pneumatic (air-powered), electric, and even cordless versions, which are powered by rechargeable batteries.

Article Sources and Further Reading

• Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia)
• Plant (Safe Work Australia)
• The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety)
• What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety)

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