This Ductwork Installation in Ceiling Space SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers entering a roof or ceiling space to install, support and seal air conditioning or ventilation ductwork. It covers safe ladder access, moving only on joists or crawl boards, de-energising the installation at the main switch, avoiding cabling and downlights, two-person handling of duct sections, managing heat and suspected asbestos. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Air conditioning and refrigeration installers
Ventilation and mechanical services contractors
Ducted heating installers
Builders and renovators
Property maintenance businesses
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
Falling through ceiling linings by stepping off joists
Falls from the access ladder
Heat stress and dehydration in the roof space
Contact with live cabling, downlights or damaged wiring
Manual handling of duct sections in a confined space
Crouching, kneeling and awkward postures on joists
Cuts from sharp sheet metal edges
Insulation fibres and dust
Low lighting, exposed nails and debris
Disturbing suspected asbestos, and bites or stings
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from ladder and hatch inspection to switchboard location, known roof space hazards, heat timing and telling someone
A 12-step installation procedure covering access, joists and crawl boards, cabling, moving insulation, duct handling, supports, sealing and breaks
Isolation and energy control for de-energising and locking out every supply, including solar, batteries and generators, before entry
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for heat stress, contact with wiring, falling through the ceiling and disturbing suspected asbestos
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 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Do I need an electrician to switch off the power?
No. Switching off the main switch to de-energise the installation isn't electrical work. Testing, repair or any work on the wiring itself must be left to a licensed electrician.
Does it cover work on the roof itself?
No. Work on the external roof surface or roof covering is covered by a separate procedure.
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.
