This Marquee & Temporary Structure Erection SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers erecting, anchoring, guying and dismantling marquees, tents, shade structures and small staging for hospitality and events. It sets out weather and wind checks, site, services and power line checks, inspecting components, raising frames under control, tensioning guy ropes as you go, ground anchors, and dismantling in sequence. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Marquee and event hire companies
Event organisers and production crews
Wedding and function suppliers
Festivals, markets and show organisers
Councils and community event teams
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
Collapse, lifting or overturning from wind, poor anchoring or unstable ground
Falling frame sections, poles or roof panels
Manual handling injury from heavy frames, covers and staging
Being struck by frames, poles or guy ropes, especially in wind
Trips and impalement on anchors, stakes, pegs and guy ropes
Falls from height on larger structures or staging
Contact with overhead powerlines when raising poles
Crush and pinch injuries when connecting or folding frames
Cuts from sharp edges, fittings, cable ties and strapping
Sunburn, heat stress and weather exposure
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from wind forecasts and ground conditions to wind ratings, component inspection, anchors and team size
A 12-step operating procedure covering layout, base frame, raising sections, guy ropes, ground anchors, roof covering and fall prevention
Isolation and energy control for anchor drivers, supporting raised frames, power lines and transport vehicles
7 shutdown, handover and dismantling steps
Emergency actions for collapsing or lifting structures, severe weather and power line contact
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 Hospitality & Events 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 structures erected with a crane or EWP?
No. Structures built with scaffolding over four metres, or using cranes or elevating work platforms, are excluded. The SOP points you to check which high risk work licences apply.
Does it include severe weather planning?
Yes. The event team is briefed on who monitors forecasts and when the structure must be evacuated or further secured.
Is a SWMS also needed?
A SWMS is required where the work meets a high risk construction work category, or where the site or contract calls for one.
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.
