SOP stands for standard operating procedure. It describes the steps of a job or process to ensure quality and consistency. The purpose is to carry out operations correctly and uniformly. An SOP maximizes operational efficiency by providing compulsory instructions for safely completing tasks. It should be written so others can follow the steps and be available where the work occurs.

1. What is SOP?
A Document which
describes the operations of
a certain work or job in
order to ensure its quality
The purpose of a SOP is to
carry out operations
correctly and always same
manner
It maximizes operational
and production
requirements
A set of compulsary
instructions, systems,
procedures or steps which
is written so that other
individuals can follow to
complete the job safely

2. • A SOP should be available at the place where
the work is performed. The original should be
kept at a secured place while working copies
should be authenticated with stamps and / or
signatures by authorized person.

3. Format of SOP
• • The format and length of SOP depend on the
• steps that are taken to describe the
• procedures of the work.
• • It can be a simple one-page hierarchical steps,
• graphic procedures and even a flow chart. An
• organization will have its own format for SOP,
• and you can follow the following format as a
• guide to write your technical SOP.

4. Who should write SOP?
• People who will perform / has performed the job
• • People who work together on a job / anybody
• related with the task (i.e. the engineers,
• technicians, maintenance or equipment
• personnel)
• • People who supervise other people doing the
job.
• • Safety and health officer
• • Technical writers

5. Why use SOPs?
• • A successful business needs committed workers who
• complete work procedures consistently and accurately
• • It also requires all involved to contribute their experience,
• knowledge, and ideas to constant improvement for the future
• • Standard operating procedures get everyone driving toward
• outstanding performance and success
• • Well-written standard operating procedures provide direction,
• improve communication, reduce training time, and improve
• work consistency

6. BENEFITS OF SOP
• – The opportunity to share best practice
knowledge
• – A proven method which everyone can
follows
• – Training documents readily available
• – Knowledge available for everyone to use
effectively