Standard Operating Procedure

A standard operating procedure is a set of step-by-step instructions for performing a routine activity. Standard operating procedure should be followed the same way every time to guarantee that the organization remains consistent and in compliance with industry regulations and business standards. SOPs provide the policies, processes and standards needed for an organization to succeed. They reduce errors increase efficiency and enhance profitability. They also create a safe work environment and produce guidelines for how to resolve issues and overcome obstacles. An effective standard operating procedure explains the steps taken to complete a task and informs the employee of any risk associated with the process. The instructions should be brief and easy to understand with a focus on how things should be done rather than what needs to be done. Before writing an SOP, the author should perform a risk assessment of all the steps in the procedure.

The assessment should identify any obstacles that might arise during the process and any risk associated with the obstacles. To decide which procedure would benefit from an OSP organizations should make a list of all their business processes. Managers should discuss employees day-to-day responsibilities and tasks to ensure all procedures are accounted for. Any routine task that multiple employees handle should be considered for SOP creation.

  Standard operating procedures are more than just checlist, they are vital part of aviation that ensures every flight adheres to the highest safety standards. For the aviation industry the continues refinement and adherence to those procedures are what mae air travel one of the safest modes of transportation available today.