This Trestle & Plank Platform Setup SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to set up and work from low-level trestle and plank platforms for short jobs like painting, sanding, linings and ceiling work. It covers inspecting trestles and rated scaffold planks, firm footing, spans and overlaps, keeping the platform at 2 metres or lower, safe access, load limits and moving the platform. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Painters and decorators
Plasterers and ceiling fixers
Carpenters and fit-out contractors
Builders and renovators
Maintenance teams in schools and facilities
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 from overreaching or standing on the top rung, trestle cap or plank end
Platform collapse from damaged trestles or unrated planks
Planks slipping or tipping from wrong overlap, overhang or span
Trestles tipping on soft, uneven or sloping ground
Tools or offcuts falling from the platform edge
Manual handling when carrying, erecting and dismantling
Slips and trips on and around the platform
Contact with overhead powerlines, light fittings and services
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from trestle and plank inspection to rated span, ground conditions, overhead hazards and platform height
A 13-step operating procedure covering placement, locking braces, plank overlap, height limits, access, overreaching, loading and moving the platform
Isolation and energy control for removing and tagging damaged or unrated trestles and planks
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for trestle or plank failure and a person falling from the platform
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 Carpentry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Internal Fit-out SOP Bundle, Ultimate Painting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Roofing SOP Bundle and Ultimate Shopfitting SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
How high can a trestle platform be?
The SOP sets a working platform height of no more than 2 metres above the supporting surface. Above that, or for longer jobs, it refers you to the Mobile Scaffold Erection and Inspection procedure.
Can I use any timber plank?
No. Only planks with a valid scaffold plank rating can be used, and their rated span and safe working load must suit the setup.
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.
