Do you have an SOP or HCP?

An SOP is a Standard (or Standing) Operating Procedure, and an HCP is a Hazard Control Plan.

The SOP (pronounce each letter) explains how to perform a procedure step-by-step, and identifies training needed for the particular job. It assures efficiency and uniformity of the operation, and reduces potential miscommunication. Minor problems may occur each time the operation is performed which may necessitate a temporary deviation; therefore, the author of the SOP should be thoroughly familiar with the job so that he/she can write the document in a way that allows for common irregularities. However, the job is normally performed the same way each time, and that routine reduces the potential for mistakes and danger.

The SOP should be brief yet complete, and that is sometimes difficult to achieve. It should be easy to understand because the document will be used to train new employees; and the document should be reviewed and updated annually to address any modifications on the job.

Where the SOP is written to define the procedure of the job, the HCP is the document that addresses specific hazards associated with the operation. Several kinds of hazards are high voltage, lasers, chemicals, radiation, high magnetic fields, elevated work platforms, heavy lifting, power tools, and gases. There are perhaps thousands of potential hazards, and the author of each HCP needs to be aware of the hazards pertinent to the job. It will also list relevant documents to read that are related to each danger associated with the job.

This document should also be reviewed and updated annually; but if hazards are added or eliminated within the year, the document should be updated within 30 days.

The SOP and HCP should be included in the training plan of new employees, with an audible review before the employee is free to work on the equipment. That may sound strange to some of you, but here is why I say that.

When I was an operations officer at a national scientific laboratory, employee training was one of my responsibilities. One day a new custodian was assigned to one of my buildings. As she set up the ladder to replace some light bulbs, I asked the routine question: "Have you been through ladder training?" When she affirmed that she had the training and showed me her training card, I authorized her to work in the area and I left the building.

I actually thought ladder training was unnecessary because my dad taught me ladder safety when I was a child. I thought it was common knowledge.

Three hours later when I returned, I was told the custodian had fallen, broke her leg in two places, and would be off the job for six months. After briefly investigating the accident, I went to the division office to give my report. The custodian had been in a hurry and did not follow her SOP.

Another time I investigated a forklift accident where the driver was neither authorized nor trained to drive the forklift, and was nearly killed when it overturned on him. He was in the hospital for over a year, but he eventually recovered.

Training, knowledge of hazards and dangers, following procedures -- they are part of everyday life. And of the thousands of specialized fields in life, we all are trained in many of them. We are trained to fly planes, sail ships, drive cars and trucks. We are trained to be computer techs, electricians, auto mechanics, and high-voltage linemen. We're trained how to change diapers and how to prepare meals. Every major company trains people for customer service. The list goes on.

So do you have an SOP or HCP to guide you through life? Yes, you do -- whether or not you realize it.

Every person on earth needs this SOP and HCP. They are the same document, and it is applicable for everyone because God is the mastermind behind it. It addresses the hazards, but the operational rules never change.

It is called the Bible.

The Bible teaches us how to live and how to interact with people. It explains how to learn, how to avoid danger, and whom to call for assistance. And most importantly, it teaches us how to prepare to meet God and how we can live joyfully with him forever.

Reading the Bible should be a Standard Operating Procedure for everyone. Start by reading the Gospel of John; then read the rest of it. You'll be glad you did.

-- Gene Linzey is a speaker, author and mentor. Send comments and questions to [email protected]. Visit his website at www.genelinzey.com. The opinions expressed are those of the author.