Developing a new SOP is how clubs unlock new capabilities at CHIP. If you're pioneering a new process or bringing in new equipment, we'll help you do it safely.
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) documents how to safely perform activities that involve elevated risk. If your club plans to conduct a new manufacturing process, testing procedure, piece of equipment or material that hasn't already been reviewed by CHIP, you’ll likely need to submit an SOP before beginning work.
An SOP is more than a checklist—it explains the hazards involved, outlines each step of the process, describes the required safety measures, and includes emergency procedures and supporting documentation. Developing a good SOP takes time, but it also creates a valuable resource that can be used by future club members.
Before creating a new SOP, check our library of approved procedures. If your planned activity is already covered, review the SOP and meet with a CHIP CA before initiating the process.
If your process isn't covered by an existing SOP, we'll work with you to create one. Start by meeting with a CHIP staff member to discuss your proposed activity. From there, you'll develop an SOP using our template, and we'll collaborate with you throughout the review process. This will include submitting it to Stanford Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) for feedback and approval.
Process:
→ Project Idea
→ Meet with CHIP Staff
→ Draft SOP
→ CHIP Review & Feedback
→ Revise SOP
→ EH&S Review
→ Approved for Use
Not sure if you need an SOP?
Reach out before you begin—we're happy to help determine whether your project requires one, and guide you through the process.
Make a copy of the template and rename it to clearly describe your procedure
Keep the document as a Google Doc
Give Clubhouse@Stanford.edu editing access
Our review timelines depend on the complexity and hazard level of the procedure. Let the CHIP team know your anticipated project timeline so we can help to keep things moving towards approval.