This Vehicle Hoist Operation and Inspection SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives technicians a clear method for using a two-post or four-post workshop hoist to raise, support and lower a vehicle. It covers pre-use checks, finding the correct lift points, seating pads, engaging the locking mechanism, working under a raised vehicle, clearing the area before lowering and tagging out a faulty hoist. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Mechanical and automotive workshops
Tyre and suspension centres
Car dealership service departments
Fleet and transport maintenance workshops
Auto electricians and exhaust specialists
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
Vehicles falling from the hoist when the lock is not engaged
Slippage from wrong lift points or poorly seated pads
Hoist collapse from overloading or worn components
Being trapped or crushed under a raised vehicle
Vehicles rolling off a four-post platform without wheel stops
Entrapment between moving arms, posts and the vehicle
Falling tools, parts or fluid while working underneath
Eye injury from dirt, debris or fluid spray
Slips and trips from oil, grease and clutter
Manual handling of heavy lift arms and adaptors
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from training and structural inspection to the locking mechanism, safe working load and wheel stops
A 12-step operating procedure covering positioning, lift points, pad seating, test lift, engaging locks, safe working load and lowering
Isolation and energy control for tagging out the hoist and never relying on hydraulics alone
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for a vehicle shifting or falling, a jammed hoist and a trapped person
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 Automotive & Mechanical 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 trolley jacks and axle stands?
No. Raising a vehicle with a trolley jack and axle stands is covered by a separate procedure.
Does it cover the hoist's periodic inspection and certification?
No. It covers daily pre-use checks and safe operation. Periodic inspection, certification and maintenance of the hoist are managed outside this SOP.
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.
