This Vacuum Pump & Gauge Manifold Use SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how refrigeration and air conditioning technicians use a vacuum pump and gauge manifold to evacuate systems before charging, and to monitor pressures for diagnostics and leak testing. It covers equipment and oil checks, ventilation, connecting hoses with valves closed, micron gauge readings, isolating the pump and safe disconnection. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Air conditioning installers and service technicians
Commercial refrigeration contractors
HVAC maintenance businesses
Automotive air conditioning workshops
Facility maintenance teams with licensed technicians
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
Residual refrigerant escaping from ports, hoses or fittings
Frostbite and cold burns from expanding refrigerant
Oxygen displacement in confined or poorly ventilated plant rooms
Oil mist from the vacuum pump exhaust
Hose whip or fitting blow-off under pressure
Burns from a hot pump body, motor or exhaust
Electric shock from damaged leads or motors
Manual handling of the vacuum pump
Cuts from sharp fins, panels and fittings
Slips and trips from hoses, oil containers and leads
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from refrigerant licence and pump oil to hoses, gauge calibration, ventilation and service ports
An 11-step operating procedure covering hose connection, evacuation, micron gauge readings, holding vacuum, diagnostic testing and disconnection
Isolation and energy control for closed manifold valves, pressurised ports, pump maintenance and relief devices
8 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for refrigerant release, breathing difficulty, hose failure and frostbite
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 Air Conditioning & Refrigeration 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 refrigerant recovery or charging?
No. Recovering, reclaiming and charging refrigerant are covered by a separate refrigerant recovery and charging procedure.
Does it include licence requirements?
Yes. Before starting, technicians confirm their refrigerant handling licence and vacuum pump and gauge manifold training are current.
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.
