This Fumigation Setup & Clearance SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers setting up, monitoring and clearing a structural or container fumigation. It walks licensed workers through gas-tight sealing, perimeter controls and warning signage, dosing and records, leak checks during exposure, ventilation, and clearance testing with a calibrated gas detector before anyone re-enters. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Licensed pest control and fumigation businesses
Container and import fumigation providers
Grain storage and silo operators
Port, freight and logistics operators
Quarantine and biosecurity treatment providers
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, or skin and eye contact with, toxic fumigant gas
Gas escaping from a poorly sealed structure, container or tarpaulin
Unauthorised entry during the exposure period
Re-entry before clearance testing confirms the space is safe
Fire or explosion where the fumigant or carrier is flammable
Manual handling of sealing materials, tarpaulins and signage
Falls from height when sealing elevated parts of a structure or stack
Working in confined spaces such as containers, silos and small rooms
Gas detector failure giving a false clearance reading
Heat stress in protective clothing and respiratory protection
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from licence and SDS review to detector calibration, notifying occupants and weather
A 13-step operating procedure covering perimeter setup, sealing, dosing, leak checks, ventilation and clearance testing
Isolation and energy control for residual fumigant gas, seals, signage and ventilation fans
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for gas leaks, exposure symptoms and a person entering before clearance
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 Pest Control SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Who can use this SOP?
Only employees licensed and authorised to carry out fumigation work. Workers confirm their fumigation licence and training cover the fumigant being used before starting.
Does it cover pesticide licensing and record-keeping?
No. Licensing categories, chemical use records and general pest control application are covered by your pesticide licensing and application procedure.
Is a P2 mask enough for fumigation?
No. The SOP specifies a fumigant-rated full-face respirator or supplied-air respirator as set out for the product, because a P2 mask alone doesn't protect against fumigant gas.
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.
