This Sewer Work & Contamination Control SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how plumbers clear blockages, repair or replace sewer pipework and open inspection points, manholes and access chambers while controlling exposure to raw sewage. It covers isolating or diverting flow, PPE and hygiene, working from ground level, atmosphere testing, containing spills and decontaminating workers, tools and vehicles. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Plumbing and drainage contractors
Blocked drain specialists
Local council and water authority maintenance crews
Facility and building maintenance teams
Civil contractors working near sewer lines
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
Exposure to bacteria, viruses and parasites from raw sewage
Hydrogen sulphide, methane and oxygen-deficient air at open access points
Confined space risk if a pit, manhole or chamber must be entered
Slips on wet, contaminated surfaces around open access points
Cuts and puncture wounds with a higher risk of infection
Entanglement with drain-clearing cables and jetting nozzles
Manual handling when lifting manhole covers, lids and pipework
Cross-contamination of vehicles, tools and other worksites
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from training and confined space status to nearby services, PPE, wound covering and decontamination facilities
A 12-step operating procedure covering flow diversion, lifting covers, clearing blockages from ground level, gas testing and spill control
Isolation and energy control for shutting off or diverting water flow before opening pipework or inspection points
9 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for hazardous gas symptoms, sewage contact with broken skin, eyes or mouth and collapsed workers
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 Plumbing 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 entering manholes or pits?
No. Entering a pit, manhole or access chamber is confined space entry and needs your confined space entry procedure and permit. This SOP tells workers to stop if entry is required.
Does it cover operating jetters and drain machines?
No. Detailed operation of powered drain-clearing and jetting equipment is covered by plant-specific SOPs. This SOP covers the sewer work and contamination control around it.
What does it say about cuts and sewage exposure?
Workers cover cuts and grazes with a waterproof dressing before starting. If sewage contacts broken skin, eyes or mouth, they wash immediately and seek medical advice, telling the practitioner about the exposure.
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.
