This Chain Wire Installation & Tensioning SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers installing and tensioning chain wire fencing, from unrolling and positioning mesh to fixing it to posts and rails and tensioning strainer wire. It covers tool checks, barricading near roads, handling heavy rolls, standing out of line with the wire, releasing tension under control, cutting and capping wire ends, and securing loaded wire. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Fencing contractors
Security fencing installers
Civil and construction contractors
Farm and rural fencing businesses
Local councils and sporting grounds 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
Manual handling of heavy mesh rolls and fencing parts
Strain from repetitive and awkward postures while fixing wire
Whip-back from a sudden release of tension in strainer wire or tools
Hands or clothing caught in a fence strainer under load
Cuts and punctures from sharp wire ends, mesh barbs and ties
Eye injury from wire whip and flying offcuts
Vehicles, plant and pedestrians near boundaries and roads
Trips on uneven ground, wire coils and offcuts
Falling or toppling posts, rails and components
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from strainers, tensioning tools and wire grips to secure posts, barricades and roll weights
An 11-step operating procedure covering services, unrolling mesh, fixing, strainer wire, gradual tensioning, standing aside and cutting ends
Isolation and energy control for mechanical stored energy in strainer wire and tensioning tools, including releasing and securing tension
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for sudden tension release, wire whip-back and entanglement
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 Fencing 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 post hole boring?
No. Post hole boring, excavation and powered mobile plant are not covered and need their own procedures.
Where should workers stand when tensioning?
To the side of the wire, never directly in line with it, while applying, holding or releasing tension.
Can wire be left under tension overnight?
Yes, but only if it is secured to the post or anchor point so it can't spring back. A loaded tensioning tool is never left unattended.
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.
