Writing SOPs

An SOP is only required for operations involving hazardous chemicals.   An SOP is not required for operations such as operating a lathe unless hazardous chemicals are involved.   The following items should be considered when writing an SOP. They may not all be applicable in every situation.   There is no specific format required for an SOP.

1.	Hazard description.
		Hazardous material or class of hazardous materials involved
		Special hazards.
2.	Hazard Controls
		Use of engineering controls such as fume hoods.
		Other controls such as temperature limits.
3.	Personal Protective Equipment
		Specific information such as glove material to be used.
4.	Health and safety information.
		Flammability information.
		Toxicity.
		Other relevant information.
5.	Decontamination and waste disposal.
6.	Specific Procedures.
		Specific how to information such as "add acid to water"
7.	Room or Work Area.
		Specify this only if procedure is specific to one location.
8.	Power failures.
		Loss of power to safety specific equipment such as fume hoods.
		Loss of power to equipment used in procedure.