This Traffic Control Setup & Removal SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to set up and remove signs, cones, delineators, bollards and barriers in line with an approved Traffic Management Plan and Traffic Guidance Scheme. It covers the placement and removal sequence, working on foot near live traffic, securing vehicles and VMS trailers, high-visibility clothing and using the STOP/SLOW bat. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Traffic management companies
Civil and road construction contractors
Councils and road maintenance crews
Utility and telecommunications contractors
Tree services and roadside maintenance crews
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
Being struck by vehicles while placing or removing devices
Errant vehicles entering the work zone
Being struck by the traffic control vehicle or VMS trailer
Manual handling of signs, cones, barriers and sandbags
Poor driver visibility at dusk, dawn or in bad weather
Slips and trips on shoulders, verges and drains
Conflicting signals between traffic controllers
Fatigue and heat or cold exposure
Dust, debris and exhaust fumes from passing traffic
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from the TMP and TGS to roles, weather, device condition, vehicle readiness and high-visibility clothing
A 12-step operating procedure covering placement sequence, sign and taper setup, barriers, working on foot, STOP/SLOW bats and monitoring
Isolation and energy control for traffic control vehicles and VMS trailers, chocking and escape paths
10 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for vehicles entering the work zone, device strikes, near misses and an unwell traffic controller
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 writing a Traffic Management Plan?
No. It covers setting up and removing devices to an already approved TMP and TGS. Preparing and approving the plan is covered by other procedures.
Does it cover traffic controllers using STOP/SLOW bats?
Yes. It covers positioning, using the bat and agreeing signals or radio contact where more than one traffic controller is used.
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.


















