SOP & Risk Assessment Example

SOP & Risk Assessment Example

This example focuses on guided day walks (bushwalks) and shows how to combine a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) with a risk assessment in a single document.

What Is an SOP?

A Standard Operating Procedure is a step-by-step guide that tells staff exactly how to run an activity safely. It goes beyond a risk assessment by specifying:

• What happens at each stage of the activity (pre-departure, during, return)
• Who is responsible for each task
• Specific go/no-go criteria
• Emergency procedures specific to this activity

Why Combine SOP and Risk Assessment?

Having both in one document means:

• Staff can see the hazards and the procedures for managing them side-by-side
• Induction is more efficient — one document covers both what to do and why
• It's easier to keep both current when you review one document

This Example Covers

For guided day walks:

• Pre-departure preparation (briefing, equipment checks, weather assessment)
• Route assessment and go/no-go criteria
• Participant supervision during the walk
• Hydration, fatigue, and pacing management
• Weather monitoring and dynamic risk assessment during the walk
• Emergency procedures (injury, missing person, weather deterioration)
• Return and debrief

Adapting This for Your Activity

This example is for bushwalks, but the same structure applies to any guided outdoor activity. Replace the specific hazards, controls, and procedures with those relevant to your activity. Your Technical Advisor can help you identify any gaps.

Download the example and use it as a starting point for your own SOPs.