ABSTRACT
Why are safe operating procedures (SOPs) or standard operating procedures necessary? SOPs or standard operating procedures should be included as the product of a job safety analysis or job hazard analysis program of a company. The SOP is a set of written instructions that document a routine or repetitive activity followed by an organization. The development and use of standard or safe operating procedures is an integral part of a successful quality system as it provides workers with information to perform a job properly and safely while facilitating consistency in the quality and integrity of a product or end result. SOPs provide precise directions for performing a job, operating a piece of equipment, or driving a vehicle in a safe and healthy manner, thus preventing an accident or incident. Thus, SOPs are an important component of a prevention undertaking.
