LABORATORY STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP) TEMPLATE (.pdf format)
What is SOP
A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a written document detailing how to safely work with hazardous materials or carry out experiment utilizing equipment or systems that pose a hazard. An SOP helps to ensure a safe work environment by documenting the key risks associated with an activity and how the risks can be controlled. The ultimate purpose of an SOP is to ensure operations are performed safely and in the correct manner.
Who is responsible for developing SOPs
At the University of Windsor SOPs are required to document the experiment or processes that are unique, not covered by the general safety information. Laboratory personnel who supervise or direct hazardous operations are responsible for developing an SOP. Principal Investigators shall ensure that SOPs are implemented in their work areas and labs.
Some examples of chemicals and processes that should require SOPs are:
- Hydrofluoric acid
- Picric acid
- Perchloric acid
- Highly toxic chemicals
- Osmium tetroxide
- Pyrophoric chemicals
- Reactive chemicals
- Flammable gases
- Sterilization
- Toxic gases
The SOP development process:
- Laboratory personnel can use a template available (see above) to create a SOP, or construct their own. Any format of SOP is acceptable provided the minimum safety elements are addressed. Italicized items on the SOP templates outlines information required to be answered and should be deleted on the final SOP version.
- The final copy must be approved by the PI or Lab Supervisor.
- All researchers using a specified chemical or process must be trained on the relevant SOP. This training must be recorded. Training records should include:
- Acknowledgement statement – in which the laboratory personnel must agree fully adhering to the SOP’s requirements.
- Name
- Student’s or employee’ ID#
- Signature
- Date
(See the Training Documentation page at the end of the SOP Template).
- The SOP must be kept on the premises where the activities will take place. Inspectors will ask to see the SOP during routine safety inspections.
- Each lab group should store copies of their signed SOPs either electronically or as readily available printed documents.
Recommended resources to help complete the SOP:
- Safety Data Sheets provide good background information;
Note: Use of any chemical with WHMIS 2015 “H codes” (GHS) for Particularly Hazardous Substances requires a SOP. These codes can be found on the Safety Data Sheet for the chemical.
- The Laboratory Chemical Safety Summaries in PubChem offer an excellent collection of safety information for several thousand chemicals. (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/lcss/)
- Prudent Practices in the Laboratory, published by the National Research Council. The book is available online and a paper copy from the CCC, or you can download a PDF version of the book free of charge at https://www.nap.edu/catalog/12654/prudent-practices-in-the-laboratory-handling-and-management-of-chemical