This Strip Out of Existing Fitout SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to strip out an existing commercial fitout back to the base building shell, ahead of a new fitout or handback. It covers asbestos checks, the strip out plan and sequence, isolating services, removing ceilings, partitions, linings, floor coverings and redundant services from the top down, dust control and reassessing structural stability as work progresses. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Shopfitters and commercial fitout contractors
Strip out and demolition contractors
Office refurbishment builders
Commercial builders preparing tenancies for handback
Project managers overseeing make-good works
 
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
Live electrical, gas or water services not isolated before demolition
Respirable crystalline silica and dust from cutting and breaking materials
Disturbing asbestos-containing materials in older buildings
Falls from height when removing ceilings, bulkheads and high-level services
Falling debris, collapsing partitions or unsecured ceiling grid
Structural instability from removing load-bearing or bracing elements
Manual handling of stripped-out materials
Noise from demolition tools, and cuts from sharp debris
 
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from training and SWMS status to asbestos assessment, the strip out plan, service isolation and structural elements
A 9-step operating procedure covering hoarding, top-down sequencing, ceilings, partitions and linings, dust suppression and structural reassessment
Isolation and energy control for identifying, isolating and tagging out electrical, gas and water services before strip out begins
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for structural collapse, uncontrolled gas or water release, live electrical contact and disturbed asbestos
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 Shopfitting 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 asbestos removal?
No. Asbestos removal needs a licensed asbestos removalist. The SOP requires the site to be assessed for asbestos before work starts and tells workers to stop and evacuate if suspected asbestos is disturbed.
What's the difference between this and the internal fixtures SOP?
This SOP covers a whole-of-tenancy strip out, including ceilings, partitions, floor coverings and services. Removing only furniture, joinery, shelving or signage is covered by the Strip Out of Internal Fixtures SOP.
Do I need a SWMS as well?
Where the strip out meets a high risk construction work category, the pre-operational checks require a SWMS to be in place, with workers named on it and briefed.
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.