Doing things the right way every time earns customer loyalty and increases profitability. But instilling consistency across sales, billing, and service is challenging. That's where documenting standard operating procedures (SOPs) can help.

Defining Standard Operating Procedures

A standard operating procedure explains how work gets done. It provides step-by-step instructions for a routine task, like servicing a portable restroom on a customer's site. Some SOPs include checklists to make them easier to follow.

When a procedure is easy to understand and detailed, almost anyone should be able to perform the job. SOPs should define requirements for tools, supplies, and safety measures, including potential hazards and expected results.

Reinforce Safety Procedures

Standard operating procedures enhance safety, protecting employees and your company. Each SOP should use the same format, so teams always know where to find potential hazards and PPE requirements. It should serve as a point of reference when reviewing work accidents or writing injury reports.

Strengthen Training, Spot Checks, and Performance Reviews

SOP documentation plays a role throughout an employee's lifecycle. New-hire training follows standard procedures, and crew members learn to reference the manual when they have questions or want to cross-train. Managers can objectively monitor service technicians' work quality because the SOP clearly defines the sequence of steps, PPE requirements, amounts of chemicals, and expected outcome.

Enable Business Continuity and Increase Your Company's Value

On the backend, SOPs should document proper billing procedures, your payroll process, and your bonus policies. If an essential employee or owner can't perform critical tasks, standard operating procedures help portable restroom companies run with minimal disruption. Documented processes are also vital to succession planning.

Cost Savings and Operational Efficiency

Beyond safety and training, well-documented SOPs directly impact your bottom line. When every technician follows the same procedures, you reduce waste, minimize errors, and improve customer satisfaction—leading to higher retention rates and better reviews. Operators who invest in strong SOP documentation often report 15-20% improvements in operational efficiency within the first year.

TOICO's Perspective on Standard Operating Procedures

TOICO Industries has worked with portable sanitation operators since 1997 to develop operational excellence. Our experience shows that the most successful operators combine quality equipment with rigorous standard operating procedures. TOICO's equipment is designed to work reliably within well-defined processes. Whether you're implementing new SOPs or refining existing ones, TOICO's comprehensive equipment solutions support your operational goals. Many operators use TOICO equipment as the foundation for their service standards, ensuring consistency across their entire fleet.

Getting Started with Your SOP Documentation

If your company lacks comprehensive SOPs, now is the time to develop them. Start with your highest-risk activities and most critical processes. Involve your experienced team members in the documentation process—they often have valuable insights about what works in practice. Once documented, review and update your SOPs regularly as your business evolves.

Ready to Strengthen Your Operations?

Want to discuss how TOICO can help optimize your operation through reliable equipment and operational support? Contact the TOICO team at 1-888-935-1133 or visit www.toico.com to schedule a consultation. Our equipment specialists understand the portable sanitation business and can recommend solutions tailored to your specific operational challenges and goals.