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Safe work procedure

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The term Safe Work Procedure (SWP) originated in Victoria, Australia and is predominately used as a risk control tool industries throughout Australia, particularly in the mining sector. SWP's are also refered to using other terms; "Standard Operating Procedure" (SOP) and "Safe Operating Procedure" (SOP). A Safe Work Procedure is a working risk control document created by teams within the company that describes the safest and efficent way to perform a certain task. This document stays in the Health & Safety system for regular use as a template or guide when completing that particular task on site.


Whats in a Safe Work Procedure?

The document generally lists the associated hazards involved in performing a task, what risk score is associated with the hazards (using a [[Risk_matrix|risk matrix]), what personal protective equipment is required, and the steps involved to complete the activity without incident.

Safe Work Procedures are also required for machinery and equipment that is used to perform commercial activities. The Procedures are required to be enforced within the workplace and improved as conditions or equipment changes.