This CCTV Drain Inspection SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers using push-rod or self-propelled crawler cameras to inspect sewer and stormwater drains from ground level. It covers equipment and RCD checks, barricading the access point, atmospheric testing for hydrogen sulphide and methane, feeding and retracting the camera, what to do if it gets stuck, and cleaning and disinfecting equipment afterwards. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Plumbers and drainers
Drain inspection and pipe relining businesses
Local councils and water authorities
Civil and infrastructure contractors
Facilities maintenance 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
Sewage, wastewater and biological hazards from drain contents
Hydrogen sulphide, methane, carbon dioxide or low oxygen at open drains
Confined space risk if a pit, manhole or drain must be entered
Manual handling of the camera reel, control unit and access covers
Slips, trips and falls into an open drain, pit or manhole
Electric shock from the power supply, battery or monitor in wet conditions
Being struck by vehicles near roads, footpaths or car parks
What's included
6 pre-operational checks, from training and equipment condition to RCD testing, access point barricades and confirming no entry is needed
A 7-step operating procedure covering barricades, removing covers, atmospheric testing, cable set-up, feeding the camera and stuck cameras
Isolation and energy control for disconnecting the camera unit, securing the reel and never leaving access points open
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps, including disinfecting equipment
Emergency actions for sewage exposure through cuts or splashes, and gas symptoms near an open drain
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 Plumbing 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 entering a pit or manhole?
No. Entry into a pit, manhole, sewer or drain is confined space entry and needs a separate confined space permit. The camera is fed in from ground level only.
What if the camera gets stuck?
Workers don't enter the drain or pit to retrieve it. The SOP says to stop work and escalate for further assessment.
Does it cover drain jetting?
No. Drain jetting, cleaning and excavation are not covered and need their own procedures.
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.
