Safe Operating/Working Procedures (SOP/SWPs)

A Safe Operating/Working Procedure (SOP/SWP) 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)

SOP/SWPs DO NOT REPLACE PROPER LAB TRAINING BY THE PRINCIPLE INVESTIGATOR (PI)

Before creating an SOP/SWP 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.

SOP/SWPs can be written by anyone performing work in a research space, but should always be reviewed and approved by the PI. SOP/SWPs should be reviewed once annually.