This Workshop Servicing & Machine Isolation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) gives hire business workshop teams a clear method for isolating and servicing plant and equipment returned from hire, from small engines and generators to earthmoving attachments. It covers removing keys or disconnecting batteries, bleeding hydraulic and pneumatic pressure, supporting raised components, isolating fuel, personal tags and safe function testing. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Equipment and plant hire businesses
Hire depot workshop mechanics
Small engine and mower repairers
Earthmoving and machinery workshops
Fleet and plant maintenance teams
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
Unexpected start-up or movement during servicing
Electric shock or burns from live components or a connected battery
Sudden release of hydraulic or pneumatic pressure
Raised components or machines falling or lowering
Burns from hot engine, exhaust, hydraulic or brake parts
Fire or explosion from fuel, vapour or hydraulic oil
Cuts and entanglement from belts, chains and rotating parts
Manual handling of heavy components
Slips and trips from oil, grease, coolant and clutter
What's included
7 pre-operational checks, from training and the work area to hire return notes, machine condition, lifting gear and confirming no one else is operating it
A 10-step operating procedure covering positioning, isolation, rated supports, depressurising, guards, diagnostic running and function testing
Isolation and energy control for electrical, mechanical, gravity, hydraulic, pneumatic and fuel energy, with personal tags
8 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for unexpected movement, falling components, fires, trapped people and fluid spills
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 Hire Services 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 pre-hire checks and handover?
No. The pre-hire functional test and handover inspection before equipment goes out to a customer is covered by a separate procedure.
What if two people are working on the same machine?
The SOP requires each person to apply their own lock or tag, and isolation stays in place until all work is complete and a competent person confirms it is safe.
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.
