What a risk assessment and method statement is
A risk assessment and method statement, or RAMS, is two documents that go together. The risk assessment lists each hazard, who could be harmed and the controls that reduce the risk. The method statement sets out the safe sequence of work, step by step. The method statement carries out the controls that the risk assessment sets.
When you need one
The risk assessment is a legal duty under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The method statement is not named in law for every job. Principal contractors still ask for both before significant-risk work starts, and CDM 2015 requires construction work to be planned and managed.
What goes in the risk assessment
The risk assessment records each hazard, who might be harmed and how, and the controls already in place. It rates each risk by likelihood and severity, adds further controls, and states the residual risk. Controls follow the hierarchy of control, so elimination and engineering controls come before PPE.
What goes in the method statement
The method statement covers the scope of works and the numbered sequence of work. It lists plant, equipment, permits and PPE, and covers access and egress, welfare, first aid and emergency procedures. It names who is competent to do each task, and it ends with a sign-off sheet for everyone briefed on it.
Construction method statements by trade
The same structure works for every trade, but the hazards change. An electrical method statement starts with safe isolation. A groundworks method statement starts with locating underground services. A roofing or scaffolding method statement is built around working at height. Describe your job and the document follows the work you actually do.
FAQ
- Do you need a method statement with a risk assessment?
- For significant-risk work, yes in practice. The law requires the risk assessment. Principal contractors ask for the method statement as well, because it shows how the controls are carried out on site.
- What is the difference between a risk assessment and a method statement?
- The risk assessment says what could go wrong and how each risk is controlled. The method statement says how the job is done safely, in order. One is the assessment and the other is the plan of work.
- Who should write a risk assessment and method statement?
- A competent person with the training, knowledge and experience of the work. You can draft the document here, and a competent person reviews it and signs it off before use.
- Can I edit the document?
- Yes. You get an editable Word file and a PDF, so you can tailor it to the site before use.
- What does it cost?
- Your first document is free. After that, £15 each, three for £35, or ten for £89. No subscription. You can read a full sample before you decide.