This Subfloor & Roof Void Entry SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to safely enter and work in subfloor spaces and roof voids for pest inspections, treatments and related tasks in low-clearance areas. It covers assessing the space and ruling out a confined space, switching off and tagging every electrical supply, check-in arrangements, safe footing on joists, asbestos and wiring, chemical use and heat stress. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Pest control and termite management businesses
Building and pest inspectors
Electricians and data cablers
Insulation installers
Plumbers and maintenance trades
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
Entrapment or difficulty exiting through restricted access points
Prolonged crouching, kneeling and crawling
Falling through ceilings by stepping off joists or battens
Cuts and punctures from nails, screws and broken glass
Droppings, nests and mould
Asbestos-containing materials such as fibro sheeting or pipe lagging
Exposed, damaged or deteriorated electrical wiring
Heat stress and dehydration in roof voids
Dust, insulation fibres, bites and stings
Termiticide and pesticide exposure in poorly ventilated spaces
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from training and space assessment to confined space screening, wiring, heat, lighting, check-ins and chemicals
A 14-step operating procedure covering entry and egress, lighting, safe footing on joists, PPE for droppings and mould, asbestos, wiring and chemical use
Isolation and energy control for switching off and tagging grid, solar, battery and generator supplies before roof void entry
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for being stuck, disoriented or unwell, heat stress and suspected harmful atmospheres or chemical exposure
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 Pest Control 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 confined space entry?
No. If a subfloor or roof void meets the definition of a confined space, for example very limited ventilation or suspected atmospheric contamination, workers stop and follow your confined space entry procedure instead.
Do we need to turn the power off before entering a roof void?
Yes. Every supply to the building, including grid, solar, battery storage and any generator, is switched off at the main switch and secured and tagged before entering a roof or ceiling space.
What if workers find suspected asbestos?
They stop work immediately. The SOP covers recognising materials such as fibro sheeting, pipe lagging or backing that may contain asbestos.
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.
