This Machine Start-Up & Shutdown SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers the routine start-up and shutdown of industrial machinery at the start and end of a shift or production run. It sets out pre-start checks for guards, leftover locks and tags, settings and emergency stops, warning signals before automatic starts, monitoring run-up, the shutdown sequence, letting parts run down, and handover records. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Manufacturers and factories
Food and beverage processing plants
Packaging and printing businesses
Plastics, timber and metal product manufacturers
Machine operators and production supervisors
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
Entanglement, crushing or impact from missing or unsecured guards
Unexpected starts, including automatic or remote starts with no warning
Starting a machine with maintenance locks, tags or signage still fitted
Moving parts and stored energy while the machine runs down
Noise during run-up and operation
Slips, trips and falls during checks and housekeeping
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from guards and leftover isolation tags to clear surrounds, settings, emergency stops and warning signals
A 7-step operating procedure covering warning signals, start controls, staged start-up and monitoring run-up
Isolation and energy control for leftover locks and tags, and when to switch to the lockout tagout SOP
8 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for failed starts, faults during run-up and machines that don't fully stop
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 Manufacturing & Industrial 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 clearing jams or maintenance?
No. Isolating the machine for maintenance, fault-finding or clearing a jam is covered by the Lockout Tagout Application & Removal SOP.
Does it include interlock testing?
No. Only a quick visual guard check is included. The periodic interlock function test is in the Machine Guarding Inspection & Interlock Test SOP.
What if there's a lock or tag on the machine?
The machine isn't started. Locks and tags must be formally cleared under the Lockout Tagout Application & Removal SOP first.
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.
