Standard Operating Procedures
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) set out how key tasks are done on a dairy farm, so the job is completed properly and the same way every time.
They create consistency when different people do the same job — for example, following the same milking hygiene steps to reduce mastitis risk — which makes training easier and standards easier to maintain.
Creating standard operating procedures
Starting SOPs from scratch can feel overwhelming, as much of this knowledge sits in farm owners' heads, and every farm works differently depending on layout, equipment and management style.
The templates below can be tailored to suit a farm. Adding photos from the workplace shows each step clearly. Keeping signed copies on file supports training and helps meet compliance requirements.
SOP template library
SOPs work alongside the Code of conduct (under Recruitment), which sets the behaviour standards these procedures support.
Templates will be available be soon.
Common questions
What is a standard operating procedure?
A standard operating procedure (SOP) sets out how a key farm task is done, so the job is completed properly and the same way every time, whoever is doing it.
Why do dairy farms use SOPs?
They create consistency when different people do the same job, make training easier, maintain standards — for example, following the same milking hygiene steps to reduce mastitis risk — and support compliance.
How does a farm create SOPs?
Start from a template, tailor it to the farm's layout and equipment, add photos of each step, and keep signed copies on file to support training and meet compliance requirements.