A Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) is a document detailing the…
- Scope
- Hazard Assessment
- Training required
- Control/Protective measures
- Tools, Materials, Equipment, and PPE
- Emergency Procedures
- Step by Step Procedure
- Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedures
- Equipment Maintenance Procedures
…created whenever:
- Performing a new experiment
- Handling a particular hazardous material (i.e. HF)
- Operating/maintaining an instrument/equipment
- Routinely investigating for safety hazards (i.e. leaks)
SOPs DO NOT REPLACE PROPER LAB TRAINING BY THE PRINCIPLE INVESTIGATOR (PI)
Before creating an SOP (also called Safe Work Practice) for a piece of equipment, an instrument, routine investigation, or hazardous material, first check the HSE Forms and Documents site as they may already have already created a SOP that can be used for your research space.
SOPs can be written by anyone performing work in a research space, but should always be reviewed and approved by the PI. SOPs should be reviewed once annually.