This Partition Framing & Sheeting SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to build internal stud partition walls with metal or timber framing and fix plasterboard sheeting in commercial or residential fit-outs. It covers setting out, locating concealed services, fixing tracks and studs, bracing frames, cutting and lifting sheets, powder-actuated tool use, working around occupants and other trades, and responding to a service strike. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Plasterers and partition contractors
Interior fit-out and shopfitting businesses
Builders and carpenters
Commercial office refurbishment contractors
Ceiling and wall lining installers
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
Manual handling injuries from plasterboard sheets and framing
Cuts from metal stud edges, blades, screws and broken plasterboard
Noise-induced hearing loss from power and powder-actuated tools
Dust and eye injuries from cutting, sanding, swarf and flying fasteners
Striking concealed electrical cables, gas or water pipes
Powder-actuated tool misfire, ricochet or penetration
Falls or overreaching from ladders, trestles or platforms
Partially erected framing falling or collapsing
Slips and trips from offcuts, leads and dust
Working around other trades and occupants
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from training and the setout drawings to locating services, tool and cartridge checks, access equipment, barricading and material storage
A 12-step operating procedure covering setting out, fixing tracks and studs, bracing, coordinating services, cutting and lifting sheets, fixing patterns and powder-actuated tools
Isolation and energy control for power tools and powder-actuated tools, isolating concealed services and securing partly built framing
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for electrical, gas or water service strikes, framing collapse and powder-actuated tool misfires
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 Internal Fit-out 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?
Yes. It covers using powder-actuated fastening tools to fix track or battens, including cartridge and fastener checks and isolation before clearing a jam.
Does it cover sealing service penetrations?
No. Sealing service penetrations through fire-rated or acoustic-rated walls is covered by a separate procedure.
Do I need a SWMS as well as this SOP?
This SOP covers how to frame and sheet partitions safely, step by step. If the job is high risk construction work, you'll also need a SWMS for that work.
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.
