Free Thresher SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) Template
Download our free Thresher SOP Template:
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Purpose of a Thresher SOP
Thresher SOPs outline a safe operating procedure for thresher use. Thresher 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
Thresher 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 SOP documents 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 thresher SOPs prior to operation within your business. It can also be used for refresher training periodically.
Who Should Use
Thresher 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 thresher?
A thresher is a piece of farm equipment that separates the seeds or grain from the husks and straw by beating the plant to make the seeds fall out.
What is a thresher used for?
Threshers are integral in the post-harvest process, facilitating the separation of grain from the chaff and straw, which is an essential step before the grain can be milled or processed.
What hazards are involved in thresher use?
Some hazards that are involved in thresher use include:
- Entanglement
- Flying debris
- Noise
- Dust
What are some safety controls that can be utilised during thresher use?
Some safety controls that can be utilised include:
- Safety guards
- Wearing PPE
- Operator training
- Regular maintenance
Did you know?
Before the advent of threshing machines, threshing was done by hand with flails or by trampling it with animals, which was laborious and time-consuming. The first known mechanical thresher was invented by Scottish mechanical engineer Andrew Meikle in 1786. This mechanization offered a huge leap forward in agricultural efficiency.
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/>