This Welding Setup, Screening & Fume Extraction SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives welders a clear method for setting up and running welding equipment safely. It covers checking leads, torches, hoses, regulators and flashback arrestors, securing gas cylinders, placing welding screens, positioning fume extraction, clearing flammables, starting and stopping the weld, and isolating the welder, gas and extraction fan. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Metal fabrication and engineering workshops
Boilermakers and welders
Maintenance workshops in manufacturing and mining
Agricultural and plant repair workshops
TAFE and school metalwork workshops
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
Welding fume containing metallic oxides
Arc radiation, arc flash and skin burns to welders and bystanders
Electric shock from damaged leads, torches or earth clamps
Burns from sparks, hot metal and slag
Fire or explosion from sparks or welding on containers that held flammables
Leaking gas cylinders, regulators, hoses and flashback arrestors
Manual handling and trips from welding sets, cylinders, leads and hoses
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from leads and torches to gas equipment, cylinders, screens, extraction position and fire precautions
A 10-step operating procedure covering PPE, screens, extraction, respiratory protection, machine settings, technique and containers
Isolation and energy control for the welding machine, gas cylinders, hose pressure and the extraction fan
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for arc flash, fire, electric shock, gas leaks and fume exposure
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 Steel & Metal Fabrication 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 hot work permits or confined space welding?
No. Hot work permits, confined space welding, exposure limits, health monitoring and respirator fit testing are covered by your Welding, Cutting and Fume Control procedure.
Does it cover galvanised or stainless steel fume?
No. Hexavalent chromium and galvanised metal fume are covered by your Welding, Cutting and Fume Control procedure.
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.
