This Formwork Erection & Stripping SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives your crew a step-by-step method for erecting, propping, bracing and stripping formwork and falsework on site. It covers checking the work against the engineer's design or formwork drawing, inspection before the pour, monitoring during the pour, and stripping in the correct sequence once the concrete has reached strength. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Formwork contractors and carpenters
Concreters
Builders and construction companies
Civil construction contractors
Residential and commercial building crews
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
Formwork or falsework collapse from the pressure of wet concrete
Stripping before the concrete has reached the required strength
Panels, bearers or props falling during uncontrolled or drop stripping
Crush and impact injuries from falling formwork components
Falls from height while erecting, working on or stripping formwork
Being struck by materials, tools or offcuts
Manual handling injury from panels, props and bearers
Instability from formwork not braced, propped or tied to the drawing
Cuts and punctures from formply edges, nails and fixings
Struck-by or crush injury when cranes place formwork panels
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from training and the formwork drawing to ground stability, fall prevention and rescue planning
A 13-step operating procedure covering erection, propping, bracing, pre-pour inspection, pour monitoring and stripping sequence
Isolation and energy control for structural loads, concrete strength before stripping, powered tools and cranes
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for formwork movement, bulging, cracking and collapse
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 Building & Construction SOP Bundle and Ultimate Concreting SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover the formwork design?
No. Structural design and engineering certification are the responsibility of a suitably qualified person. This SOP covers erecting, checking and stripping formwork to that design.
When can formwork be stripped?
Only once a competent person has confirmed in writing that the concrete has reached the strength needed for that stripping stage. Curing time alone isn't relied on.
Do I still need a SWMS for formwork?
Yes, where the work is high risk construction work, such as a risk of falling more than 2 metres or structural work needing temporary support. The SOP doesn't replace a site-specific SWMS.
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.
