THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A STRONG STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE IN PLACE

A Standard Operating Procedure (or “SOP”) is a set of detailed and well-planned instructions that provide the basis for understanding and executing work properly safely. Depending on the nature of your company, organization or work site, the documentation of your Standard Operating Procedures will vary in scope – but should always be clear, focused and leave no stone unturned when it comes to planning for what could go wrong and dictating what must be done in the interest of safety and success.

As an employer, you have a responsibility to your organization and all its stakeholders to maintain and bolster a safe working environment. Being a healthy & safety leader involves planning and preparation to ensure that specific, documented sets of steps are followed across all areas of operations. Having these SOPs in place is what helps mitigate the risks involved with the nature of your work. SOPs take into account any and all potential hazards, and while an SOP will follow industry precedent and best practices, it must also be customized to your firm’s unique needs and circumstances.