This Window Cleaning from Ground Level SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives window cleaners a clear method for cleaning upper-storey glass from the ground using extension poles, water-fed pole systems and squeegees. It covers checking equipment, identifying overhead power lines and keeping safe approach distances, barricading for pedestrians, stable footing, pole handling without overreaching, managing water runoff and isolating the pump. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Window cleaning businesses
Commercial cleaning contractors
Building and facility maintenance teams
Strata and property maintenance contractors
Retail and shopfront cleaning services
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
Strain from repetitive overhead pole work
Overreaching or losing balance when extending a pole
Electric shock from poles near overhead power lines or exposed wiring
Slips on wet ground from water and cleaning solution
Being struck by debris or fittings dislodged from upper storeys
Skin or eye irritation from cleaning chemicals
Pedestrians and vehicles near footpaths, entrances and driveways
Electric shock from a damaged water-fed pole pump or cable
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from pole and hose condition to overhead power lines, ground surface, SDS, pedestrian traffic and weather
An 11-step operating procedure covering approach distances, barricading, footing, pole length, stance, technique, breaks and runoff
Isolation and energy control for the water-fed pole pump, overhead power lines and cordoning off the work area
6 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for poles contacting power lines, electric shock and injured pedestrians
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 Cleaning 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 ladders or work platforms?
No. It covers cleaning from the ground only. Ladders, raised work platforms, scaffolds and any work at height are covered by separate procedures.
Does it cover carbon fibre water-fed poles?
Yes. It treats conductive carbon fibre poles as a power line risk and requires the minimum safe approach distance to be maintained.
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.
