What must happen to an SOP when there is a major change to the processes, equipment, or facility?

When there is a major change to the processes, equipment, or facility, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) must be revised or replaced to ensure that it accurately reflects the current practices and complies with safety and regulatory requirements. This is crucial because SOPs serve as essential guidelines that outline safe and effective procedures for handling hazardous materials. If the SOP is not updated to incorporate the latest changes, it could lead to confusion, unsafe practices, and increased risks during operations.

Revising or replacing the SOP ensures that all personnel are trained based on the most accurate and relevant information. It reinforces the commitment to safety and compliance in managing hazardous materials, helping to prevent accidents and ensuring that procedures are working effectively in alignment with the new operational realities.

Other responses, while they may seem logical, do not align with the required actions following major changes. Simply publishing the SOP without making necessary changes may leave outdated information in use. Leaving the SOP unchanged disregards the importance of adapting to new conditions that could affect safety or efficiency. Re-evaluating at a later date could potentially allow unsafe practices to occur in the interim, which is not acceptable in environments where hazardous materials are involved.