FREE Roller SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template

Download our free Roller SOP Template:

• Roller SOP.doc file (Word Document)

• Roller SOP.pdf file (PDF)

*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.

Preview of the Roller SOP template — covering purpose, scope, responsibilities, pre-operation checks, the safe operating procedure, post-operation tasks and key hazards for roller use.

Purpose of a Roller SOP

Roller SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for roller use. Roller 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

Roller 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 roller 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 roller SOPs prior to operation within your business. They can also be used for refresher training periodically.

Who Should Use

Roller 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

What is a roller?

A roller is a type of engineering vehicle used to compact soil, gravel, concrete, or asphalt in the construction of roads and foundations.

What is a roller used for?

Rollers range from Cylinder and Pneumatic Tire Rollers for smooth and uniform compaction to Vibratory, Sheepsfoot, and Grid Rollers that effectively compact diverse materials from fine-grained soils to coarse rocks with specialised designs, like vibrating mechanisms and distinctive lugs to aid in efficient ground consolidation.

What hazards are involved in roller use?

Some hazards that are involved in roller use include:

• Overturning on slopes

• Collisions with workers or obstacles

• Vibrations and noise

• Crush hazards

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

Some safety controls that can be utilised include:

• Operator training

• Using PPE

• Equipment maintenance

• Safety zones and barriers

Did you know?

Some rollers are now equipped with sophisticated compaction control systems that provide real-time feedback on the soil stiffness and compaction progress, allowing operators to achieve the desired compaction level more efficiently and effectively. Additionally, modern vibratory rollers can adjust the frequency and amplitude of their vibrations, optimizing compaction for different types of materials and conditions.

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)