This Tile Removal & Floor Grinding with Dust Extraction SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to remove floor tiles and grind screed, adhesive or concrete while controlling respirable crystalline silica dust. It covers checking for asbestos, M-class extraction and dust shrouds, wet suppression, RCD protection, respiratory protection, containment and isolating tools before disc, blade or filter changes. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Tilers and tile removal contractors
Flooring and floor preparation businesses
Bathroom and kitchen renovators
Builders doing strip-outs
Concrete grinding and polishing contractors
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
Silica dust from tiles, adhesive, screed or concrete causing silicosis and lung disease
Manual handling from breaking, lifting and carrying tiles
Hand-arm vibration from breakers, chisels and grinders
Noise from grinding, breaking and extraction equipment
Cuts from broken tile edges, chisels and discs
Eye injury from flying fragments and dust
Electric shock from damaged tools or leads, especially with wet suppression
Slips and trips on debris, dust and slurry
Contact with rotating grinder discs and stripper blades
Strain from kneeling and awkward postures
What's included
10 pre-operational checks, from asbestos assessment and M-class extraction to RCDs, wet suppression, barricading and RPE fit
A 10-step operating procedure covering dust shrouds, extraction, tile removal, grinding technique, breaks, dust monitoring and debris
Isolation and energy control for grinders, tile strippers and extraction units before disc, blade or filter changes
8 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for shattered discs, kickback, extraction failure and dust exposure symptoms
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 Tiling & Waterproofing SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
What if the tiles or adhesive might contain asbestos?
Stop work. The SOP requires you to follow your asbestos management procedure before going any further.
Does it cover engineered stone or roof tiles?
No. Engineered stone benchtop work, structural demolition and roof tile removal are outside its scope.
What dust extraction does it require?
An M-class or higher extraction unit connected to a correctly fitted dust shroud, with wet suppression used where practical.
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.
