This On-Tool Dust Extraction & Capture SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to use grinders, saws, sanders and drills fitted with on-tool dust extraction to control respirable crystalline silica and other dust. It covers fitting and sealing the shroud, checking suction at an M-class vacuum, water suppression as a backup, safe filter and dust bag changes, isolating power before clearing blockages, and disposing of captured dust. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Concreters and concrete cutting contractors
Bricklayers and stonemasons
Tilers and stone benchtop installers
Builders and renovators
Plumbers and electricians drilling into masonry
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
Inhaling respirable crystalline silica and other airborne dust
Silicosis and lung cancer from repeated poor dust capture
Dust exposure from missing or unsealed shrouds and incorrect filter or bag removal
Electric shock or trips from vacuum hoses and power leads
Slips on wet slurry when water suppression is used
Eye and skin irritation from dust or slurry splashback
Noise from the tool and vacuum running together
Blocked hoses or overfull filters reducing airflow and overheating the vacuum
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from training and the shroud seal to the M-class vacuum, suction, water supply and leads
A 7-step operating procedure covering shroud fitting, starting the vacuum first, keeping the shroud flush, water suppression and monitoring dust capture
Isolation and energy control for unplugging the tool and vacuum before changing discs, filters or bags, or clearing blockages
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for uncontrolled dust releases and signs of acute dust exposure
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 Bricklaying & Masonry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Carpentry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Concreting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Internal Fit-out SOP Bundle, Ultimate Painting SOP Bundle and Ultimate Tiling & Waterproofing SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
What type of vacuum does it require?
The SOP requires a vacuum that is at least M-class rated for capturing dust containing respirable crystalline silica, with suction checked at the shroud before work starts.
Does it cover water suppression?
Yes. It covers on-tool water suppression as a backup control where extraction isn't practicable, including keeping water flowing continuously and managing slurry.
Does it include general power tool inspection?
No. General pre-use inspection of power tools is covered by the Hand and Power Tool Inspection and Use procedure.
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.
