This Skid Steer & Dingo Operation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to operate skid steer loaders and compact mini loaders (Dingo-style machines) safely with buckets, augers, trenchers, forks or sweepers. It covers walk-around and ROPS checks, attachment locking, safe travel and slopes, exclusion zones, locating services before digging, attachment changeover and isolating stored hydraulic energy. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Landscaping and garden construction businesses
Civil and earthworks contractors
Fencing and post hole contractors
Builders and site preparation crews
Equipment hire operators
Rural property and farm maintenance businesses
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
Rollover or tip-over on slopes, soft ground or with a raised load
Operator ejection or crush without the seatbelt or restraint bar
Blind spots and collisions with pedestrians, structures or plant
Bystanders struck due to the tight turning radius
Crush injuries during attachment changeover
Underground or overhead services when augering or trenching
Entrapment when entering or exiting with the lift arms raised
Contact with auger flights or trencher chains
Hydraulic fluid injection from a failed hose or coupler
Noise, dust and exhaust fumes
What's included
10 pre-operational checks, from training and the walk-around to ROPS/FOPS, restraints, attachment locking, services and spotters
A 15-step operating procedure covering mounting, travel, turning, rated capacity, slopes, auger and trencher digging and exclusion zones
Isolation and energy control for lowering attachments, shutting down and relieving hydraulic pressure before changeover or maintenance
9 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for rollovers, hydraulic hose failures and striking underground or overhead services
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 Civil & Earthworks 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 excavators?
No. Excavators and other slewing plant with a boom and bucket are covered by a separate plant-specific SOP.
Which attachments are included?
It covers buckets, augers, trenchers, forks and sweepers, including attachment changeover and locating services before using an auger or trencher.
Do I need a SWMS as well?
If the work meets the definition of high risk construction work, you'll need a SWMS in addition to this SOP. The SOP covers safe operation of the machine for training and sign-off.
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.
