This Chemical Decanting, Labelling and Storage SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how your team transfers hazardous chemicals from bulk or supplier containers into smaller containers, labels them correctly and stores them safely. It covers SDS and container checks, controlled decanting, when a workplace label is needed, segregating incompatible chemicals, cleaning up and keeping the Hazardous Chemical Register current. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Commercial cleaning contractors
Manufacturers and workshops
Hospitality and food businesses
Pool, garden and facility maintenance businesses
Laboratories, schools and healthcare facilities
 
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
Splashes and skin or eye contact while decanting or pouring
Breathing in vapours, fumes, mists or dust during transfer
Chemical burns from corrosive substances
Fire or explosion from flammable chemicals near ignition sources
Dangerous reactions or toxic gas from mixing incompatible chemicals
Slips on spilled, leaked or dripped chemicals
Manual handling injury from lifting, carrying or tilting containers and drums
Container failure or overpressure from using an unsuitable container
Exposure from unlabelled, wrongly labelled or misidentified containers
 
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from reading the current SDS and container compatibility to spill kit, eyewash and ventilation
An 11-step operating procedure covering container selection, controlled pouring, fill levels, workplace labelling rules and keeping incompatible chemicals apart
Isolation and energy control for drum pumps and dispensing guns, securing containers, and damaged or leaking containers
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for spills, splashes, leaks, exposure, fires and uncontrolled chemical reactions
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 Agriculture & Farming SOP Bundle, Ultimate Air Conditioning & Refrigeration SOP Bundle, Ultimate Audio Visual SOP Bundle, Ultimate Automotive & Mechanical SOP Bundle, Ultimate Bricklaying & Masonry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Building & Construction SOP Bundle, Ultimate Carpentry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Civil & Earthworks SOP Bundle, Ultimate Cleaning SOP Bundle, Ultimate Concreting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Electrical, HVAC & Solar SOP Bundle, Ultimate Fencing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Fire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Gardening & Landscaping SOP Bundle, Ultimate Hire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Hospitality & Events SOP Bundle, Ultimate Internal Fit-out SOP Bundle, Ultimate Joinery & Cabinet Making SOP Bundle, Ultimate Manufacturing & Industrial SOP Bundle, Ultimate Painting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Pest Control SOP Bundle, Ultimate Plumbing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Professional & Business Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Property Maintenance SOP Bundle, Ultimate Retail & Wholesale SOP Bundle, Ultimate Roofing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Security Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Shopfitting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle, Ultimate Tiling & Waterproofing SOP Bundle and Ultimate Transport & Warehousing SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
 
Common questions
Does every decanted container need a label?
No. A label isn't needed if the chemical will be used immediately, only by you, and you stay with it, provided the container is cleaned straight after use. In every other case the SOP requires a workplace label showing the product identifier and hazard pictogram or statement, in English.
Does it cover transporting chemicals?
No. It doesn't cover transporting dangerous goods by road. High risk construction work also needs a SWMS in addition to this SOP.
Can we reuse food or drink containers for decanting?
No. The SOP prohibits decanting into any container previously used for food, drink or an incompatible chemical.
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.