This Armed Robbery Response SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) tells workers what to do to keep themselves and others safe during an armed robbery or hold-up, and what to do straight afterwards. It covers complying with the offender, using a duress alarm only when it is safe, noting details for police, securing the premises, preserving the scene and accessing post-incident support. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Retail shops and service stations
Pharmacies and convenience stores
Hospitality venues, bars and clubs
Banks, post offices and cash-handling businesses
Front-of-house and back-of-house teams
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Injury from an offender using or threatening a weapon
Escalating violence if a worker resists or tries to protect cash or stock
Higher risk if a duress alarm is seen or heard by the offender
Psychological trauma, shock and delayed stress reactions
Injury to people who follow or approach the offender after they leave
Disturbing the scene before police arrive
Returning to normal duties, including cash handling, before being fit to
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from duress alarm location and cash limits to evacuation routes and EAP contacts
An 8-step operating procedure covering compliance, keeping hands visible, safe use of duress alarms and noting offender details
Securing the till, safe and point-of-sale area only once the offender has left, and leaving reconciliation until police release the scene
9 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps, including first aid, scene preservation, debriefs and return to work
Emergency actions for violence, injuries, multiple offenders or an offender who stays on the premises
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Retail & Wholesale SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Are workers expected to stop the offender?
No. Workers are never expected, trained or authorised to resist, negotiate with, pursue or apprehend an offender. The SOP puts their safety ahead of cash, stock and property.
Does it cover security guard duties?
No. It is for any worker who may be present during a hold-up, including cash handling, front-of-house and back-of-house roles. Security guard and law enforcement duties are not covered.
Does it include support after the robbery?
Yes. It covers access to an Employee Assistance Program for everyone affected, a supportive debrief, and not returning to normal duties until a worker feels fit to.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
