This Temporary Edge Protection Installation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to install, inspect, maintain and remove temporary guardrails, barrier mesh, handrails and toe boards at slab edges, stairwells, voids, penetrations and excavation edges. It covers planning the install sequence so no one works from the unprotected side, securing sections and handling openings for access. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Builders and construction contractors
Carpenters and formworkers
Edge protection and safety screen installers
Civil and excavation contractors
Site supervisors and leading hands
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
Falls through unprotected slab, floor or stairwell edges, penetrations and voids
Falls into unprotected excavation or trench edges
Collapse of edge protection that is not properly assembled, fixed or counterweighted
Crush, impact and manual handling injuries when moving posts and mesh
Cuts and abrasions from sharp edges, pinch points and damaged parts
Falling tools, offcuts or materials through gaps in incomplete protection
Trips on base plates, kickboards, fixings and stored components
Working near an open edge during installation or removal
What's included
5 pre-operational checks, from training and the site plan to component inspection and weather
A 9-step operating procedure covering barricading, install sequence, rails and mesh, toe boards, voids and excavation edges
Isolation and energy control for keeping partly installed sections stable and barricading any opened section
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for collapsed or displaced edge protection and a person falling or at risk of falling
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 Building & Construction 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 permanent guardrails or fall arrest systems?
No. It covers removable and relocatable temporary edge protection used during construction. Permanent edge protection, fall arrest systems, scaffolding and excavation shoring each need their own procedure.
Do I need a SWMS as well as this SOP?
Yes, where the work is high risk construction work such as work at height. The SOP gives the step-by-step method for installing edge protection, while the SWMS records the hazards and controls for the specific job.
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.
