This Minor Repairs & Tool Use SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers small, non-specialist repairs at client or tenanted properties, such as door and window hardware, loose fittings, minor carpentry and tap washers. It sets out checking the work order and your licence limits, working safely around occupants, children and pets, isolating power or water before starting, using a ladder or step, and leaving the property safe and tidy. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Handyman and property maintenance businesses
Property managers and real estate maintenance teams
Facilities and building maintenance contractors
Community housing and social housing providers
Aged care and disability home maintenance services
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
Cuts, abrasions and puncture injuries from hand and power tools
Electric shock near powerpoints, switches or light fittings
Water escape from fittings not isolated first
Slips and trips on furniture, rugs, cords, pets or clutter
Falls from a ladder or step
Interruptions from occupants, children, pets or visitors
Awkward postures, kneeling and reaching in tight spaces
Dust, fumes, flying debris and noise from drilling, sanding or cutting
Working alone in an occupied property
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from the work order and your licence limits to tool inspections, the site walk and signs of live faults or gas
An 8-step operating procedure covering setting up around occupants, ladders, tool use, knowing when to stop and escalate, and testing the repair
Isolation and energy control for electrical circuits, water supply shut-offs and ladder set-up
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for electric shock, uncontrolled water leaks, disturbed asbestos and threats while working alone
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 Property Maintenance 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 electrical or plumbing work?
No. Licensed electrical or plumbing work is outside the SOP. Workers isolate power or water for simple repairs and refer anything involving wiring to a licensed tradesperson.
Does it include tool inspection?
No. Pre-use inspection of hand and power tools is covered in the separate Hand and Power Tool Inspection & Use SOP, which this SOP refers to.
Does it cover working alone in a client's home?
Yes. It covers working around occupants, pets and children, and tells workers to leave and contact their supervisor if they feel unsafe.
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.
