This Plasterboard Installation, Setting & Sanding SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to safely lift, fix, joint, set and sand plasterboard sheets on walls and ceilings. It covers sheet checks, using sheet lifters and props for heavy or overhead sheets, team lifting, safe cutting with retractable knives, fixing patterns, taping and setting, wet smoothing, dry sanding with M Class dust extraction and task rotation to reduce dust exposure. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Plasterers and wall and ceiling fixers
Builders and renovators
Interior fit-out and shopfitting contractors
Commercial and residential lining contractors
Maintenance and repair contractors
 
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
Musculoskeletal injury lifting and holding sheets, especially overhead
Heavy sheets up to 60 kg slipping, twisting or being dropped
Falls from ladders, trestles or platforms during ceiling work
Being struck by falling sheets, offcuts, props or tools
Cuts from utility knives when scoring and cutting
Neck, shoulder and back strain from sustained overhead work
Dust from sanding set jointing and finishing compound
Repetitive strain from taping, setting and sanding
Slips and trips from offcuts, dust and trailing leads
Eye and skin irritation from dust or splashed compound
 
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from training and sheet condition to lifters and props, access equipment, retractable knives, M Class dust extraction and the work area
A 12-step operating procedure covering sheet layout, mechanical and team lifting, supporting ceiling sheets, cutting, fixing, taping and setting, wet smoothing and dust-controlled sanding
Isolation and energy control for powered sanders, lowering and braking sheet lifters and barricading below overhead work
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for unstable or falling sheets, falls from height and cuts or other 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 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
When must a sheet lifter be used?
The SOP calls for a mechanical sheet lifter or aid where a sheet weighs more than 28 kg, is being installed overhead, or access is restricted.
Does it cover dust from sanding?
Yes. It favours wet smoothing where practical, and dry sanding uses on-tool dust extraction rated M Class or higher, with fewer people in the area and task rotation.
Does it cover asbestos sheeting or EWPs?
No. Removing or disturbing asbestos-containing sheeting isn't covered, and neither is operating scissor lifts or other powered mobile plant.
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.