This Nail Gun Inspection & Use SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to inspect and safely use pneumatic, gas-fired and cordless nail guns for framing and finishing work. It covers checking the tool, trigger and contact tip, loading the right fasteners, single-shot and bump-fire modes, keeping hands and others out of the line of fire, isolating the tool to clear jams, and what to do if a nail penetrates the body. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Carpenters and builders
Framing and roofing contractors
Fencing and decking contractors
Shopfitters and joiners
Pallet and crate manufacturers
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
Accidental discharge causing nail penetration injuries
Unexpected firing in bump-fire (contact trip) mode
Nail ricochet off hard surfaces, knots, metal fixings or nail heads
Kickback causing loss of balance or a second discharge
Nails passing through thin material or near edges into hands or body
Being struck by an ejected nail, staple or fragment
Noise-induced hearing loss from repeated firing
Air hose trips, whip or fitting failure under pressure
Fire and burns from gas-fired fuel cells
Manual handling strain from repetitive or overhead work
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from training and tool condition to the trigger mode, contact tip, fasteners and line of fire
A 12-step operating procedure covering connecting the tool, firing technique, single-shot and bump-fire use, carrying the tool and clearing jams
Isolation and energy control for disconnecting air, removing the gas cell or battery and unloading fasteners before clearing jams or maintenance
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for nail penetration injuries, including embedded nails and eye or face injuries
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 Carpentry 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 powder-actuated tools?
No. Powder-actuated fastening tools use an explosive cartridge and have extra licensing and control requirements, so they need their own procedure.
Which types of nail gun does it cover?
It covers pneumatic (compressed air), gas-fired and cordless battery-powered nail guns used for framing and finishing work.
Does it allow bump-fire mode?
Only where the task and site risk assessment specifically permit it. Single-shot (sequential trip) operation is the default, and bump-fire is never used on a ladder, in a confined space or where the contact tip could touch your body.
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.
