When must an update of facility SOP occur?

An update of facility Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) must occur when there is a change in facility leadership. This is crucial because changes in leadership often bring shifts in priorities, policies, and operational strategies. New leaders may have different approaches to risk management, security protocols, or introduce new directives that require the SOPs to be aligned accordingly. Keeping the SOPs current with leadership changes ensures that all staff are aware of the new direction and that operations continue seamlessly and securely under the new governance.

The other circumstances listed do not inherently necessitate an SOP update. For instance, while completing training is essential for staff development, it does not automatically require an SOP revision unless the training introduces new protocols or modifies existing ones. Similarly, while waivers are important for compliance and operational flexibility, they do not directly influence the overarching operational policies unless they lead to significant procedural changes. Lastly, introducing new devices may call for updates in operational practices or training, but it doesn’t always require a full SOP revision unless those devices significantly alter the protocols or guidelines already in place.