A standard operating procedure: a written set of steps for doing a task the same way each time. A good one names the hazards and the PPE, and says when to stop.

How long should an SOP be?

As short as it can be and still be safe to follow. One page is a good aim. If a task needs more, split it into a main SOP and separate procedures for the risky parts.

Can PortalBase AI answer questions from my SOPs?

Yes. Load your SOPs and workers can ask a question in plain words and get the answer with the page it came from. It needs a signal, and offline the app searches the documents already on the phone.

Free template

A one-page SOP template for a task your crew does.

Write the task so a new person could do it safely. Steps in order, the hazards, the PPE and when to stop. Print the sheet, or download it as Word and fill it in on a computer.

Also calledStandard operating procedure template, Work instruction template, Safe work procedure template, Procedure template

See the sheet All free tools

Free to print, copy and change. It’s a starting point. Add the lines your equipment and your rules need.

Download itPDF Word Excel

SOP template

Procedure title

Document no. and version

Owner

Date approved

Review by

Purpose and scope

What this procedure is for, and where and when it applies.

PPE and equipment

Safety glasses
Gloves
Hearing protection
Hard hat
Safety shoes
High-visibility vest
Respirator
Face shield
Other (write in)

Hazards

What can hurt someone doing this task, and how it is controlled.

Steps

Step

What to do

Watch for

Photo or note

Stop the job if

Any worker can stop the job. Write the conditions that mean stop and call the supervisor.

Approval

Name

Role

Signature

Date

A starting point. Adapt it to your equipment, your procedures and the rules that apply to you.Free template from portalbaseai.com

How to use it

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Step 1
Write it from watching the task
Watch someone do the job the right way, or do it yourself with a notepad. Then write the steps as they happen, not as you think they should.
Step 2
One action per step
Short steps starting with a verb. If a step has two actions, split it. Add a photo where words are not enough.
Step 3
Train on it and review it
Walk the crew through the SOP, then check it against how the job is really done. Set a review date so it is not out of date.

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Load your SOPs into PortalBase AI. A worker asks a question in plain words and gets the answer with the page it came from.

Book a walkthrough See how PortalBase AI answers from your SOPs

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Common questions

What is an SOP?: A standard operating procedure: a written set of steps for doing a task the same way each time. A good one names the hazards and the PPE, and says when to stop.
How long should an SOP be?: As short as it can be and still be safe to follow. One page is a good aim. If a task needs more, split it into a main SOP and separate procedures for the risky parts.
Can PortalBase AI answer questions from my SOPs?: Yes. Load your SOPs and workers can ask a question in plain words and get the answer with the page it came from. It needs a signal, and offline the app searches the documents already on the phone.

Related and more free tools

Free tool

A one-page SOP template for a task your crew does.

SOP template

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Write it from watching the task

One action per step

Train on it and review it

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Get new free tools by email.

Common questions

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