This guidance note explains what standard operating procedures (SOPs) are, when they should be used, and how they support wider risk management processes such as Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS).
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are a key component of effective health and safety management. They provide a consistent, structured approach to carrying out work activities safely and in compliance with UK legislation.
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What is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Relationship between SOPs and RAMS
Legal and good practice context
Communication, training and review
Client assurance and professional standards
What is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)?
An SOP is a written document that sets out how a specific task or activity is to be undertaken, step-by-step, in a safe and controlled manner.
SOPs typically describe:
The scope and purpose of the activity
- Who is authorised or competent to carry out the task
- Required equipment, tools, and PPE
- The correct sequence of work
- Key hazards and control measures
- Emergency or abnormal situations
- References to relevant legislation, standards, or guidance
Unlike a RAMS document, which is often site-specific, an SOP is generally task-specific and repeatable, allowing it to be used consistently across multiple projects or locations.
Why are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) important?
SOPs play a critical role in:
- Standardising work activities across sites and teams
- Reducing variability in how tasks are performed
- Minimising reliance on individual interpretation or informal practices
- Supporting training, supervision, and competence management
- Demonstrating organisational control and professionalism
From a client perspective, SOPs provide reassurance that tasks are not being planned from scratch on every project and that proven, controlled methods are being applied.
When should SOPs be issued?
SOPs should be developed and issued where one or more of the following apply:
- The task is carried out regularly or routinely
- The activity involves foreseeable health and safety risks
- Consistency of approach is required across multiple sites
- The task requires specific controls, sequencing, or competence
- There is a legal, contractual, or client expectation for defined procedures
- Lessons learned from incidents, near misses, or audits indicate the need for standardisation
Typical examples include:
- Working at height activities
- Use of plant, equipment, or powered tools
- Hazardous substances handling
- Confined space or restricted access tasks
- Isolation, permit-to-work, or emergency procedures
What is the relationship between SOPs and RAMS?
- SOPs are designed to support, not replace, project-specific RAMS.
- SOPs define the standard method for carrying out a task
- RAMS identify site-specific hazards and controls
- RAMS can reference relevant SOPs to avoid unnecessary duplication
This approach ensures:
- RAMS remain concise and focused on site conditions
- Proven safe methods are applied consistently
- Changes to standard practice can be controlled and reviewed centrally
What role do SOPs play in legal and good practice context?
While SOPs are not explicitly named in legislation, their use supports compliance with key UK requirements, including:
- The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
- HSE guidance on safe systems of work and risk control
In effect, SOPs help demonstrate that risks have been assessed, control measures identified, and safe systems of work established and communicated.
How should they be used in internal communication, training and reviews?
For SOPs to be effective, they must be:
- Communicated to all relevant workers
- Incorporated into inductions, toolbox talks, or task briefings
- Supported by appropriate training and supervision
- Reviewed periodically and updated when legislation, guidance, or working practices change
- Superseded or outdated SOPs should be withdrawn to prevent misuse.
How are SOPs used for client assurance and professional standards?
The inclusion of SOPs within a contractor’s management system and works pack provides clients with confidence that:
- Work activities are planned, controlled, and repeatable
- Legal duties are understood and addressed
- Site teams are working to defined, approved procedures
- Health and safety is managed proactively rather than reactively
This structured approach supports safer delivery, clearer communication, and improved overall project outcomes.
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