This Cable Running & Trip Hazard Management SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers running and managing cables and leads at floor level, including where they cross walkways, floors and public areas during audio visual and event setups. It covers route planning, lead and RCD checks, cable ramps and covers, taping, protecting doorways, inspecting runs during events, and safe pack-down and coiling. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Audio visual and event production companies
Event hire and staging businesses
Conference and function venues
Theatres and entertainment venues
Electricians setting up temporary power
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
Trips and falls from cables crossing walkways and public areas
Electric shock from damaged, wet or overloaded leads
Injury to patrons, clients or the public where cables cross their path
Strain from repetitive bending, pulling and coiling cable
Cuts from damaged insulation, connectors or ramp edges
Fire from overloaded power boards or coiled leads under load
Being struck when moving cable reels, trolleys or coils
Slips from lifted, shifted or damaged cable covers and matting
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from route planning and lead inspection to test and tag, ramps and covers, RCD protection and lighting
A 12-step operating procedure covering cable ramps, taping, keeping exits clear, power boards, doorways, inspections and spotters
Isolation and energy control for de-energising temporary power before connecting or repairing leads, RCDs and damaged cable
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for trips and falls, electric shock and failed or dislodged cable ramps during an event
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 Audio Visual SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover cabling in ceilings?
No. Cabling in ceiling spaces and roof voids, and fixed electrical installation, are covered by other procedures.
Can cables be run across a doorway or exit?
Not loose. The SOP says never to run a cable loose across an open walkway, doorway or evacuation route, and to use a rated ramp, cover or door cable protector.
Does it require RCD protection?
Yes. All portable leads and equipment use an RCD with a tripping current not exceeding 30 milliamps.
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.


















