This Dust Extraction System Use & Maintenance SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers using and maintaining fixed or mobile workshop dust extraction systems that collect wood or composite dust from saws, sanders and routers. It covers pre-start checks of ducting, filters and earthing, using blast gates, spotting blockages, lockout before clearing or changing filters, low-dust bin emptying and controlling combustible dust fire risk. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Joinery and cabinet making workshops
Furniture manufacturers
Timber and truss fabricators
Shopfitters with workshops
Schools and TAFE woodwork workshops
Signage and CNC routing 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
Breathing in wood or composite dust from poor extraction or damaged filters
Fire and explosion from combustible dust in ducting, filters or bins
Static discharge igniting dust in poorly earthed ductwork
Entanglement or crush when clearing blockages
Manual handling when emptying bins or bags
Electric shock from damaged leads, plugs or isolators
Noise from the extraction fan and motor
Eye and skin irritation from escaping dust
Slips and trips from spilled dust and ducting across walkways
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from ducting condition and explosion relief devices to filters, blast gates, earthing and ignition sources
A 10-step operating procedure covering start-up order, blast gates, suction checks, machine limits, hot material, blockages and bin emptying
Isolation and lockout before clearing blockages or changing filters, bags or bins, and keeping hot work away from the system
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for smoke, sparks, heat or burning smells, including not opening a filter housing if fire is suspected
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 Joinery & Cabinet Making SOP Bundle and Ultimate Manufacturing & Industrial SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover the dust hood on each machine?
No. The on-tool dust capture point or hood and the operation of the machinery itself are covered elsewhere. This SOP covers the ducting, blast gates, filter unit and collection bin.
Can compressed air be used to clean up dust?
No. The SOP says to avoid compressed air and dry sweeping, and to use a HEPA-filtered vacuum for general clean-up.
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.
