This Guillotine Operation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers running a mechanical or hydraulic sheet metal guillotine to cut sheet and plate in a fabrication workshop. It sets out checks on the blade, guards, light curtains, two-hand controls and emergency stop, safe feeding and clamping, removing offcuts, and lockout with the blade blocked before any adjustment or jam clearing. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Sheet metal fabricators
Engineering and fabrication workshops
Roofing and guttering manufacturers
HVAC ductwork manufacturers
Signage and metal product makers
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
Crush and amputation injury from the hold-down clamp
Blade contact, including the blade moving under gravity when stopped
Being struck by moving backstops, material supports or ejection devices
Fingers or hands trapped under or behind sheet metal
Cuts from sharp edges and burrs on sheet and offcuts
Manual handling injury from heavy, long or awkward sheets
Stacked sheet, plate or offcuts falling or shifting
Noise from shearing and material handling
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from blade and backstop condition to guards, light curtains, two-hand controls and rated capacity
A 13-step operating procedure covering blade clearance, squaring material, two-hand controls, foot pedals and removing offcuts
Isolation and energy control for lockout, hydraulic pressure and blocking the blade against falling under gravity
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for jams, misfeeds, unexpected movement, crush injuries and hydraulic leaks
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 Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover hydraulic guillotines?
Yes. It covers mechanical and hydraulic sheet metal guillotines, including relieving hydraulic pressure before working near the blade or clamp.
Should gloves be worn at the cutting line?
No. Cut-resistant gloves are worn for handling sheet and offcuts, but removed when positioning material at the cutting line so grip and dexterity aren't reduced.
Does it cover press brakes or folders?
No. Power presses, folders, nibblers and laser or plasma cutters need their own SOPs.
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.
