This Brake Service & Dust Control SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers removing, inspecting, replacing and cleaning vehicle brake pads, shoes, discs, drums and hardware, with a focus on controlling brake dust that may contain asbestos. It covers securing the vehicle on a hoist or stands, wetting dust down, using an H-class HEPA vacuum, controlling spring-loaded parts, torquing wheel nuts and disposing of contaminated waste. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Mechanical repair workshops
Brake and suspension specialists
Fleet and transport maintenance workshops
Dealership service departments
Mobile mechanics
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
Asbestos fibres in brake dust on older or unknown-history vehicles
Brake dust from disturbing pads, shoes, discs and drums
Crush injury from a vehicle falling or moving on a hoist or stands
Strain from awkward postures, kneeling and reaching
Cuts from sharp rotor edges, springs and retaining clips
Burns from hot brake components
Being struck by spring-loaded hardware releasing under tension
Skin and eye irritation from brake cleaner and degreasers
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from asbestos-aware training and treating unknown linings as asbestos to hoist, stands, ventilation and HEPA vacuum
A 10-step operating procedure covering wetting dust, banning compressed air and dry brushing, HEPA vacuuming, springs and wheel nut torque
Isolation and energy control for hoist locks, axle stands, wheel chocks, ignition and spring-loaded brake hardware
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps, including a low-speed brake test
Emergency actions for uncontrolled release of dry brake dust and a vehicle shifting or falling
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 Automotive & Mechanical SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it deal with asbestos in brake dust?
Yes. Where a vehicle's history or brake composition is unknown, workers treat linings and accumulated dust as though they may contain asbestos, and never use compressed air, dry brushing or dry sweeping.
What vacuum does it require?
A HEPA-filtered (H-class) vacuum cleaner, not a household or standard workshop vacuum.
Does it cover hoist inspections?
No. General plant pre-start and hoist inspection are covered by the Pre-Start Plant & Equipment Inspection SOP. This SOP has workers confirm the hoist and stands are inspected and rated before use.
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.
