Tiling method statement example: bathroom tiling with underfloor heating

HSE five steps · CDM 2015

You write this: Tile the walls and floor of a domestic bathroom and install an electric underfloor heating mat, in an occupied house. The underfloor heating final connection is carried out by a qualified electrician.
You get this: Craftline Tiling Ltd will tile the walls and floor of a domestic bathroom and install an electric underfloor heating mat, in an occupied house at 18 Hawthorn Close, Bristol (project ref CTL-3316). The underfloor heating final connection is carried out by a qualified electrician. Two operatives will carry out the works over 4 days from Tue 23 Jun 2026, under the supervision of R. Nowak, Tiling Supervisor (NVQ Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiling). The client, Mrs J. Aldridge, is also acting as principal contractor. The work will be done with the bathroom segregated from the rest of the house, dust controlled at source, and the electrical and water services isolated and proved safe where needed. Items to confirm before work starts: (1) the age of the house and whether an asbestos register or management survey exists for the bathroom, confirmed by R. Nowak with Mrs Aldridge before 23 Jun 2026; (2) the type of floor and wall substrates (masonry, plasterboard, timber floor) and whether any existing tiles or coverings are to be removed, confirmed on the pre-start walk; (3) the position of the water stopcock, the consumer unit and the circuit and RCD protection for the underfloor heating, confirmed by the electrician and R. Nowak before work starts; (4) the product names and Safety Data Sheets for the adhesive, grout, primer and sealant, confirmed by R. Nowak before the materials are opened; (5) where the wet tile cutter will be set up, the delivery and waste route, parking, and which household members and pets will be at home, confirmed with Mrs Aldridge on the pre-start walk; (6) the welfare arrangement (toilet, hand washing, drinking water), confirmed with Mrs Aldridge on the pre-start walk.

Generated for an example job to show the format. Make your own site-specific version and have a competent person review it.

Document details
Contractor	Craftline Tiling Ltd
Author	R. Nowak, Tiling Supervisor (NVQ Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiling)
Client / Principal Contractor	Mrs J. Aldridge
Site	18 Hawthorn Close, Bristol BS9 3P**
Project reference	CTL-3316
Start / duration	Tue 23 Jun 2026 / 4 days

1. Scope of works

Craftline Tiling Ltd will tile the walls and floor of a domestic bathroom and install an electric underfloor heating mat, in an occupied house at 18 Hawthorn Close, Bristol (project ref CTL-3316). The underfloor heating final connection is carried out by a qualified electrician. Two operatives will carry out the works over 4 days from Tue 23 Jun 2026, under the supervision of R. Nowak, Tiling Supervisor (NVQ Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiling). The client, Mrs J. Aldridge, is also acting as principal contractor. The work will be done with the bathroom segregated from the rest of the house, dust controlled at source, and the electrical and water services isolated and proved safe where needed. Items to confirm before work starts: (1) the age of the house and whether an asbestos register or management survey exists for the bathroom, confirmed by R. Nowak with Mrs Aldridge before 23 Jun 2026; (2) the type of floor and wall substrates (masonry, plasterboard, timber floor) and whether any existing tiles or coverings are to be removed, confirmed on the pre-start walk; (3) the position of the water stopcock, the consumer unit and the circuit and RCD protection for the underfloor heating, confirmed by the electrician and R. Nowak before work starts; (4) the product names and Safety Data Sheets for the adhesive, grout, primer and sealant, confirmed by R. Nowak before the materials are opened; (5) where the wet tile cutter will be set up, the delivery and waste route, parking, and which household members and pets will be at home, confirmed with Mrs Aldridge on the pre-start walk; (6) the welfare arrangement (toilet, hand washing, drinking water), confirmed with Mrs Aldridge on the pre-start walk.

2. Sequence of works

Method statement, safe system of work

Before the start date, R. Nowak confirms with Mrs Aldridge the age of the house and asks for any asbestos register or management survey covering the bathroom. If the area is not covered and old coverings, boxing or floor layers are to be stripped or disturbed, a refurbishment survey of the area is arranged before work starts (Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, Regulation 5).
Carry out the pre-start walk with Mrs Aldridge. Agree working hours, the route through the house, where the tile cutter will be set up, who will be at home, pet arrangements, welfare, and the position of the water stopcock and consumer unit. Confirm the items listed in the scope.
Brief both operatives on this RAMS, the stop-work rule for suspect materials, the emergency plan and the electrical isolation arrangements. Both operatives sign the briefing sheet.
Protect the route from the main entrance, stairs and first-floor landing with floor protection and corner protection. Fit a door or barrier with signage at the bathroom, and close the bathroom door when work is not being carried out. Remove or cover items in the bathroom.
Locate and, if needed, isolate the water supply to the bathroom. Check the area for pipe and cable runs before any fixing or grinding. Do not carry on if services are found in the work area until they are made safe.
Prepare the substrate. Remove any loose material, vacuum with an M-class or H-class vacuum (never dry sweep), repair and level as needed, and apply primer in a ventilated room with the window open or extraction running. If suspect asbestos-containing material is found at any point, stop work, keep people away from the area and report it to R. Nowak and Mrs Aldridge before work carries on.
Lay out and set the underfloor heating mat to the manufacturer's instructions. Keep cables clear of cuts and pipes, and never cut the heating element. Test the resistance of the mat and record it before laying, after laying and after the tiles are fixed. Stop and report any reading outside the manufacturer's limits.
Fix the sensor cable and thermostat conduit to the manufacturer's layout, ready for the electrician. The electrician is the only person to make the final connection.
Set up the electric wet tile cutter at the agreed location, supplied through an RCD, with the water slurry contained. Use the on-tool extraction angle grinder with an M-class or H-class vacuum for cuts and notches. Cut as many tiles as possible in one place at one time to limit the dust and noise.
Mix adhesive in the bathroom or the agreed mixing area with the mixing paddle, using low-dust techniques, and keep the bag lids closed. Tile the floor first and let it set, then tile the walls from a stable stepladder or platform. Check the heating mat resistance again once the floor tiles are fixed.
Grout and clean the tiles once the adhesive has set. Apply silicone sealant to internal corners and joints with the window open. Keep the room closed off until it has cured.
Electrician applies the electrical isolation permit, isolates and proves dead, makes the final connection of the underfloor heating and thermostat, tests and certifies it. Switch-on is only carried out after the adhesive has cured as the manufacturer states, and with Mrs Aldridge told.
Final clean with an M-class or H-class vacuum and damp wipe. Remove waste and tools, take the floor protection up, and leave the route clean. Record the handover, including the resistance readings and the electrician's certificate, and give Mrs Aldridge the heating manufacturer's instructions.

3. Risk assessment

Built on the HSE five steps, MHSWR 1999 regulation 3 and the hierarchy of control.

Occupied house: residents, visitors and pets in or near the work area, stairs and landing
Medium
Who / how
Mrs Aldridge, household members, children, vulnerable people, visitors and pets, harmed by dust, tools, trips, wet floors and contact with chemicals
Existing controls
Client induction at the pre-start walk, agreed working hours, operatives' own provisions
L×S
3×3=9
Additional controls
Segregate the bathroom with a door or barrier and signage, kept shut when unattended. Agree the route and mark it, protect it with floor covering. Keep adhesive, grout, primer, sealant, tools and blades out of reach, in the bathroom or a locked van, when not in use. Tell residents that nobody enters the work area. Keep an unobstructed escape route from the landing. Agree where pets stay. Tidy and clear the route at the end of each day. Operatives stay in the work area and the agreed route only.
Live electrical services: mains supply to the underfloor heating, thermostat and bathroom circuits, and electric tools used in a wet room
Medium
Who / how
Operatives, the electrician and household members, harmed by electric shock or burns
Existing controls
Final connection by a qualified electrician (18th Edition), electrical isolation permit
L×S
3×5=15
Additional controls
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: only the qualified electrician makes the final connection, working to the electrical isolation permit with lock-off, proving dead and a tag on the isolation point. No power to the heating circuit until the electrician has connected, tested and certified it and the adhesive has cured. Use tools on a portable RCD or a 110V supply, check leads for damage before use, and keep leads and plugs off wet floors. Check for hidden cables before fixing or grinding. Operatives do not touch the consumer unit or any fixed wiring. Tell the household which circuits are off. Use insulated or non-conductive hand tools near any exposed conductors.
Underfloor heating mat or cable damaged during laying and tiling (cuts, crushed cable, trowel damage, heavy foot traffic)
Low
Who / how
Householder and future occupants, harmed by fire, shock or heating failure; operatives by electric shock if energised
Existing controls
Manufacturer's instructions, qualified electrician testing
L×S
3×4=12
Additional controls
Plan the layout and mark the cable position before laying. Never cut the heating element. Test and record resistance before laying, after laying and after the tiles are fixed, and stop and report any fault. Keep sharp tools, edges and heavy materials off the mat, use a notched trowel gently on the mat, and keep traffic to boards over the mat. Keep the mat disconnected from the supply until the electrician connects it. Knee pads and a kneeling board are used for comfort.
Water services: existing supply and waste pipes in the bathroom, disturbed pipework and leaks, and wet slurry and water
Low
Who / how
Operatives and household members, harmed by slips, water damage to the property and electrical contact with water
Existing controls
Pre-start check of the stopcock location
L×S
3×3=9
Additional controls
Find the stopcock and agree isolation before work. Check for pipe runs before grinding or fixing. Do not alter plumbing. Any plumbing needs a competent plumber. Plug waste outlets while working to keep adhesive and slurry out of drains. Mop spills at once and keep electrical leads off wet areas.
Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust from cutting and grinding ceramic and porcelain tiles and the substrate, and from mixing cement-based adhesive and grout
Medium
Who / how
The two operatives doing the work, and the household members nearby breathing the dust, causing silicosis, lung disease and lung cancer over time
Existing controls
Wet tile cutter, on-tool extraction angle grinder
L×S
4×4=16
Additional controls
Plan the layout to reduce cuts. Use the wet cutter for straight cuts and the extracted angle grinder with an M-class or H-class vacuum on every cut, notch and grinding task. Water suppression is used on every cutting task where possible. Keep others out of the room and keep the door shut. Clean up with an H-class or M-class vacuum and damp wipes, never dry sweeping or compressed air. Mix adhesive carefully, pouring powder low and slowly. Then RPE with an assigned protection factor of at least 20 (FFP3 disposable or equivalent), face-fit tested and worn clean shaven. Controls follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE Construction Information Sheet CIS36 'Construction dust'. The RCS workplace exposure limit is 0.1 mg/m3 (8-hour TWA) in HSE EH40/2005.
Disturbing unidentified asbestos-containing materials when stripping, grinding, cutting or fixing into existing walls, floors, boxing or coatings (building age not stated)
Medium
Who / how
Operatives and household members, harmed by breathing asbestos fibres, causing asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma years later
Existing controls
Operatives briefed to be vigilant
L×S
2×5=10
Additional controls
This is a check to be made, not a finding. Before work starts, check the client's asbestos register or management survey for the bathroom. If the register does not cover the area and intrusive or stripping work is planned, a refurbishment survey of the area is needed first (Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, Regulation 5). Stop-work rule: if suspect material is found, stop, keep people away, close the room and report it to R. Nowak and Mrs Aldridge before work carries on. Do not dry sweep or break up suspect material. RPE is not a substitute for the check.
Electric wet tile cutter: contact with the blade, electric shock in wet conditions, and spray
Low
Who / how
The operatives, from cuts, amputation or shock
Existing controls
Competent operatives, machine guard fitted
L×S
3×4=12
Additional controls
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998: check the machine, guard, blade and water supply before use. Run through an RCD or use a 110V supply, with the lead and plug checked. Set up on a stable stand in a ventilated area, away from the household. Keep the guard on, never adjust the blade while running, and isolate before changing the blade or water. Only trained operatives use it. Eye protection and hearing protection as a last line.
Angle grinder with on-tool extraction: disc burst, kickback, entanglement, cuts and sparks
Medium
Who / how
The operatives, and anyone nearby, from cuts, flying fragments and eye injury
Existing controls
On-tool extraction, trained operatives
L×S
3×4=12
Additional controls
PUWER 1998: use a diamond disc matched to the material and the grinder's speed, check the disc for damage, keep the guard on and use two hands. Keep the cable clear of the cut. Clear others from the area. Pre-use check and a fixed storage place. Cut away from services after checking for pipes and cables. Eye or face protection, hearing protection, and gloves suited to the task as the last line.
Noise and hand-arm vibration from the cutter and angle grinder in a small tiled room
Low
Who / how
Operatives, causing hearing damage and hand-arm vibration syndrome; household members, from nuisance noise
Existing controls
Short task duration over 4 days
L×S
3×3=9
Additional controls
Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005: do the loud cutting in one block at agreed times, away from living areas and outdoors where possible. Use well-maintained tools and the lowest-vibration tool for the job. Rotate the two operatives on grinding, and take breaks. Keep the door closed. Hearing protection and anti-vibration gloves, where suitable, are secondary.
Manual handling of boxed tiles, bags of adhesive and grout, buckets of mixed material, and the cutter, up the stairs to the first-floor bathroom
Medium
Who / how
The operatives, from back and joint injury, and household members from falling loads on the stairs
Existing controls
Two operatives, manual handling awareness
L×S
4×3=12
Additional controls
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992: where possible, bring in small loads and have deliveries in smaller boxes and bags. Use a trolley for the ground floor and carry only what one person can safely handle. Team lift awkward items. Mix in smaller batches. Plan the stair route and keep it clear. Take breaks and rotate heavy tasks. Gloves and safety footwear as the last line.
Working at low height: stepladder or low platform for upper wall tiling and finishing
Medium
Who / how
The operatives, from falls and from items falling on others
Existing controls
Trained operatives
L×S
3×4=12
Additional controls
Work at Height Regulations 2005: use a low platform or podium or a stepladder only for short duration light work, if it is a safe place, with a three-points-of-contact rule. Check equipment before use. Set it on firm, level, dry ground, not on wet tile or loose boards. Keep the work within arm's reach and do not overreach. No ladder use by anyone else. Keep tools off the top step.
Skin and eye contact with wet adhesive, grout, primer and sealant (alkaline, irritant or sensitising substances)
Medium
Who / how
The operatives, from dermatitis, chemical burns and eye injury
Existing controls
Operatives trained in basic site hygiene
L×S
4×3=12
Additional controls
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002: check the Safety Data Sheets before use. Use ready-mixed or low-dust products where practicable. Mix with a paddle in smaller batches to avoid splashes. Keep wet material off skin, wash hands and skin often, and use a barrier cream and after-work cream. Provide an eyewash bottle in the work area. Gloves, eye protection and coveralls to the Safety Data Sheet specification as the last line. Report any skin changes to the supervisor.
Vapours from primer and silicone sealant in a small bathroom with limited ventilation
Low
Who / how
The operatives and household members, from headaches, dizziness and respiratory or eye irritation
Existing controls
Window in the bathroom
L×S
3×3=9
Additional controls
Check the Safety Data Sheets for the products. Use low-odour or solvent-free primer and sealant where possible. Keep the window open and fan running. Apply in small areas, keep lids on when not in use, and keep the household out of the room until it has cured. RPE only if the Safety Data Sheet calls for it.
Cuts and abrasions from tile edges, broken tiles, offcuts and sharp edges
Low
Who / how
The operatives and household members, from cuts and eye injury
Existing controls
Operatives trained in handling tiles
L×S
4×2=8
Additional controls
Remove the sharp edges on cut tiles with a rubbing stone, put offcuts in a bucket or tough bag straight away and remove them each day. Do not leave broken tile on the floor. Keep the work area clear. Cut-resistant gloves and eye protection as backup.
Slips, trips and falls from wet floors, adhesive, tools, leads, hoses and stored materials in a small room, the landing and stairs
Low
Who / how
The operatives, household members and visitors, from sprains, fractures and head injury
Existing controls
Housekeeping by operatives
L×S
3×3=9
Additional controls
Keep materials in a designated place off the walkway and not on the stairs. Run leads and hoses along walls. Wipe wet areas up at once, and keep the door shut. Do not leave tools on the floor. Clean each day. Use good lighting. Non-slip safety footwear is a secondary measure.
Awkward postures and kneeling for long periods when laying floor tiles and underfloor heating
Medium
Who / how
The operatives, from knee, back and shoulder strain
Existing controls
Two operatives sharing tasks
L×S
4×2=8
Additional controls
Plan the work to alternate between floor and wall tiling. Rotate tasks and take regular breaks. Use a kneeling board and knee pads, and a long-handled tool where possible. Set up the materials at a comfortable height. Stretch before work. Tell the supervisor about any pain.

Risk assessment: hazards, who may be harmed, controls and residual risk
Hazard	Who / how	Existing controls	L×S	Additional controls	Residual
Occupied house: residents, visitors and pets in or near the work area, stairs and landing	Mrs Aldridge, household members, children, vulnerable people, visitors and pets, harmed by dust, tools, trips, wet floors and contact with chemicals	Client induction at the pre-start walk, agreed working hours, operatives' own provisions	3×3=9	Segregate the bathroom with a door or barrier and signage, kept shut when unattended. Agree the route and mark it, protect it with floor covering. Keep adhesive, grout, primer, sealant, tools and blades out of reach, in the bathroom or a locked van, when not in use. Tell residents that nobody enters the work area. Keep an unobstructed escape route from the landing. Agree where pets stay. Tidy and clear the route at the end of each day. Operatives stay in the work area and the agreed route only.	Medium
Live electrical services: mains supply to the underfloor heating, thermostat and bathroom circuits, and electric tools used in a wet room	Operatives, the electrician and household members, harmed by electric shock or burns	Final connection by a qualified electrician (18th Edition), electrical isolation permit	3×5=15	Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: only the qualified electrician makes the final connection, working to the electrical isolation permit with lock-off, proving dead and a tag on the isolation point. No power to the heating circuit until the electrician has connected, tested and certified it and the adhesive has cured. Use tools on a portable RCD or a 110V supply, check leads for damage before use, and keep leads and plugs off wet floors. Check for hidden cables before fixing or grinding. Operatives do not touch the consumer unit or any fixed wiring. Tell the household which circuits are off. Use insulated or non-conductive hand tools near any exposed conductors.	Medium
Underfloor heating mat or cable damaged during laying and tiling (cuts, crushed cable, trowel damage, heavy foot traffic)	Householder and future occupants, harmed by fire, shock or heating failure; operatives by electric shock if energised	Manufacturer's instructions, qualified electrician testing	3×4=12	Plan the layout and mark the cable position before laying. Never cut the heating element. Test and record resistance before laying, after laying and after the tiles are fixed, and stop and report any fault. Keep sharp tools, edges and heavy materials off the mat, use a notched trowel gently on the mat, and keep traffic to boards over the mat. Keep the mat disconnected from the supply until the electrician connects it. Knee pads and a kneeling board are used for comfort.	Low
Water services: existing supply and waste pipes in the bathroom, disturbed pipework and leaks, and wet slurry and water	Operatives and household members, harmed by slips, water damage to the property and electrical contact with water	Pre-start check of the stopcock location	3×3=9	Find the stopcock and agree isolation before work. Check for pipe runs before grinding or fixing. Do not alter plumbing. Any plumbing needs a competent plumber. Plug waste outlets while working to keep adhesive and slurry out of drains. Mop spills at once and keep electrical leads off wet areas.	Low
Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust from cutting and grinding ceramic and porcelain tiles and the substrate, and from mixing cement-based adhesive and grout	The two operatives doing the work, and the household members nearby breathing the dust, causing silicosis, lung disease and lung cancer over time	Wet tile cutter, on-tool extraction angle grinder	4×4=16	Plan the layout to reduce cuts. Use the wet cutter for straight cuts and the extracted angle grinder with an M-class or H-class vacuum on every cut, notch and grinding task. Water suppression is used on every cutting task where possible. Keep others out of the room and keep the door shut. Clean up with an H-class or M-class vacuum and damp wipes, never dry sweeping or compressed air. Mix adhesive carefully, pouring powder low and slowly. Then RPE with an assigned protection factor of at least 20 (FFP3 disposable or equivalent), face-fit tested and worn clean shaven. Controls follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE Construction Information Sheet CIS36 'Construction dust'. The RCS workplace exposure limit is 0.1 mg/m3 (8-hour TWA) in HSE EH40/2005.	Medium
Disturbing unidentified asbestos-containing materials when stripping, grinding, cutting or fixing into existing walls, floors, boxing or coatings (building age not stated)	Operatives and household members, harmed by breathing asbestos fibres, causing asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma years later	Operatives briefed to be vigilant	2×5=10	This is a check to be made, not a finding. Before work starts, check the client's asbestos register or management survey for the bathroom. If the register does not cover the area and intrusive or stripping work is planned, a refurbishment survey of the area is needed first (Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, Regulation 5). Stop-work rule: if suspect material is found, stop, keep people away, close the room and report it to R. Nowak and Mrs Aldridge before work carries on. Do not dry sweep or break up suspect material. RPE is not a substitute for the check.	Medium
Electric wet tile cutter: contact with the blade, electric shock in wet conditions, and spray	The operatives, from cuts, amputation or shock	Competent operatives, machine guard fitted	3×4=12	Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998: check the machine, guard, blade and water supply before use. Run through an RCD or use a 110V supply, with the lead and plug checked. Set up on a stable stand in a ventilated area, away from the household. Keep the guard on, never adjust the blade while running, and isolate before changing the blade or water. Only trained operatives use it. Eye protection and hearing protection as a last line.	Low
Angle grinder with on-tool extraction: disc burst, kickback, entanglement, cuts and sparks	The operatives, and anyone nearby, from cuts, flying fragments and eye injury	On-tool extraction, trained operatives	3×4=12	PUWER 1998: use a diamond disc matched to the material and the grinder's speed, check the disc for damage, keep the guard on and use two hands. Keep the cable clear of the cut. Clear others from the area. Pre-use check and a fixed storage place. Cut away from services after checking for pipes and cables. Eye or face protection, hearing protection, and gloves suited to the task as the last line.	Medium
Noise and hand-arm vibration from the cutter and angle grinder in a small tiled room	Operatives, causing hearing damage and hand-arm vibration syndrome; household members, from nuisance noise	Short task duration over 4 days	3×3=9	Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005: do the loud cutting in one block at agreed times, away from living areas and outdoors where possible. Use well-maintained tools and the lowest-vibration tool for the job. Rotate the two operatives on grinding, and take breaks. Keep the door closed. Hearing protection and anti-vibration gloves, where suitable, are secondary.	Low
Manual handling of boxed tiles, bags of adhesive and grout, buckets of mixed material, and the cutter, up the stairs to the first-floor bathroom	The operatives, from back and joint injury, and household members from falling loads on the stairs	Two operatives, manual handling awareness	4×3=12	Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992: where possible, bring in small loads and have deliveries in smaller boxes and bags. Use a trolley for the ground floor and carry only what one person can safely handle. Team lift awkward items. Mix in smaller batches. Plan the stair route and keep it clear. Take breaks and rotate heavy tasks. Gloves and safety footwear as the last line.	Medium
Working at low height: stepladder or low platform for upper wall tiling and finishing	The operatives, from falls and from items falling on others	Trained operatives	3×4=12	Work at Height Regulations 2005: use a low platform or podium or a stepladder only for short duration light work, if it is a safe place, with a three-points-of-contact rule. Check equipment before use. Set it on firm, level, dry ground, not on wet tile or loose boards. Keep the work within arm's reach and do not overreach. No ladder use by anyone else. Keep tools off the top step.	Medium
Skin and eye contact with wet adhesive, grout, primer and sealant (alkaline, irritant or sensitising substances)	The operatives, from dermatitis, chemical burns and eye injury	Operatives trained in basic site hygiene	4×3=12	Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002: check the Safety Data Sheets before use. Use ready-mixed or low-dust products where practicable. Mix with a paddle in smaller batches to avoid splashes. Keep wet material off skin, wash hands and skin often, and use a barrier cream and after-work cream. Provide an eyewash bottle in the work area. Gloves, eye protection and coveralls to the Safety Data Sheet specification as the last line. Report any skin changes to the supervisor.	Medium
Vapours from primer and silicone sealant in a small bathroom with limited ventilation	The operatives and household members, from headaches, dizziness and respiratory or eye irritation	Window in the bathroom	3×3=9	Check the Safety Data Sheets for the products. Use low-odour or solvent-free primer and sealant where possible. Keep the window open and fan running. Apply in small areas, keep lids on when not in use, and keep the household out of the room until it has cured. RPE only if the Safety Data Sheet calls for it.	Low
Cuts and abrasions from tile edges, broken tiles, offcuts and sharp edges	The operatives and household members, from cuts and eye injury	Operatives trained in handling tiles	4×2=8	Remove the sharp edges on cut tiles with a rubbing stone, put offcuts in a bucket or tough bag straight away and remove them each day. Do not leave broken tile on the floor. Keep the work area clear. Cut-resistant gloves and eye protection as backup.	Low
Slips, trips and falls from wet floors, adhesive, tools, leads, hoses and stored materials in a small room, the landing and stairs	The operatives, household members and visitors, from sprains, fractures and head injury	Housekeeping by operatives	3×3=9	Keep materials in a designated place off the walkway and not on the stairs. Run leads and hoses along walls. Wipe wet areas up at once, and keep the door shut. Do not leave tools on the floor. Clean each day. Use good lighting. Non-slip safety footwear is a secondary measure.	Low
Awkward postures and kneeling for long periods when laying floor tiles and underfloor heating	The operatives, from knee, back and shoulder strain	Two operatives sharing tasks	4×2=8	Plan the work to alternate between floor and wall tiling. Rotate tasks and take regular breaks. Use a kneeling board and knee pads, and a long-handled tool where possible. Set up the materials at a comfortable height. Stretch before work. Tell the supervisor about any pain.	Medium

4. COSHH assessment

Built on COSHH 2002 regulations 6 and 7 and HSE guidance L5.

Check each entry against the supplier's Safety Data Sheet before work starts. Take workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005.

Tile adhesive

Task or use: Mixing with a paddle and bucket and spreading with a trowel to fix the floor and wall tiles
Route of exposure: Inhalation of dust when pouring and mixing the powder, skin contact with the wet mix, eye contact from splashes, and ingestion from unwashed hands
Who could be harmed: The two operatives, and household members nearby if dust spreads. Possible effects are skin irritation, dermatitis, chemical burns to skin and eyes, and respiratory irritation.
Hazards: The hazards depend on the product. Check section 2 of the supplier's Safety Data Sheet. Cement-based powders are commonly irritating to skin, eyes and the respiratory system, and wet mix can burn skin. Check this against the product.
Controls: Substitute with a ready-mixed or low-dust adhesive where it is suitable for the job
Pour the powder low and slowly, mix in small batches in a dedicated spot, and keep the bag closed when not in use
Mix in the bathroom with the door shut, or in an agreed area away from the household, and keep others out
Limit the quantity on site to what is needed each day and keep exposure time short
Clean up with an M-class or H-class vacuum and damp wipes, never dry sweeping or compressed air
Wash hands and skin at the end of the task, and before eating and drinking, and use after-work cream
Follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE COSHH guidance (L5, the COSHH Approved Code of Practice)
PPE: Gloves to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet, such as nitrile-coated or rubber
Eye protection to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Long sleeves and coveralls
RPE to the Safety Data Sheet specification where dust cannot be controlled, face-fit tested
Storage and disposal: Store the bags dry, closed and off the floor, out of reach of children and pets, in a locked van or the bathroom while work is in progress. Let leftover mix harden and remove with general construction waste. Do not wash it into household drains. Dispose of empty bags following the Safety Data Sheet and local waste rules.
First aid and spillage: Skin: brush off dry powder, then wash with plenty of clean water and seek medical advice if irritation or burns develop. Eyes: rinse with clean water from the eyewash for at least 10 minutes and get medical advice. Inhalation: move to fresh air. Spillage: sweep up nothing dry. Use an M-class or H-class vacuum or damp methods, and dispose of the waste in bags.
Health surveillance: Operatives should check their hands and forearms for dryness, redness or cracking, and report changes to the supervisor. Formal skin surveillance may be needed if dermatitis is reported or if the Safety Data Sheet calls for it. No respiratory surveillance is expected for this short job.
Check against the Safety Data Sheet: Before work starts, get the Safety Data Sheet for the adhesive actually supplied and confirm the hazards in section 2, the PPE and RPE specification, first aid and disposal. Confirm any workplace exposure limits in HSE EH40/2005.

Grout

Task or use: Mixing and applying grout to the joints between tiles, then cleaning off the surface
Route of exposure: Inhalation of powder dust when mixing, skin contact with the wet grout, eye contact from splashes, and ingestion from unwashed hands
Who could be harmed: The two operatives. Possible effects are skin irritation, dermatitis, eye irritation and respiratory irritation.
Hazards: The hazards depend on the product. Check section 2 of the supplier's Safety Data Sheet. Cement-based grouts are commonly irritating to skin, eyes and the respiratory system. Epoxy grouts can sensitise skin. Check this against the product.
Controls: Substitute with a ready-mixed or low-dust grout if suitable, or one with a lower skin hazard
Mix in small batches with a paddle, pouring powder low and slowly, with the door shut
Limit quantity and exposure time, and keep others out of the room
Clean with damp sponges and wipes, and a vacuum for dust, never dry sweeping
Keep wet grout off the skin and wash hands after use, and use after-work cream
Follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE COSHH guidance (L5, the COSHH Approved Code of Practice)
PPE: Gloves to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Eye protection to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Coveralls or long sleeves
RPE to the Safety Data Sheet specification if dust cannot be controlled
Storage and disposal: Store the product closed and dry, out of reach of children and pets. Let waste grout harden and take it away as general construction waste. Do not pour slurry or washing water into household drains. Collect the washing water in a bucket and dispose of it as the Safety Data Sheet and local rules require.
First aid and spillage: Skin: wash with plenty of water and get medical advice if irritation continues. Eyes: rinse with clean water for at least 10 minutes and get medical advice. Spillage: wipe up wet spills with absorbent material and use an M-class or H-class vacuum on dry powder. Bag the waste.
Health surveillance: Skin checks by the operatives, reporting any dryness, redness or rashes to the supervisor. Formal surveillance only if dermatitis or sensitisation is reported or the Safety Data Sheet calls for it. No respiratory surveillance is expected.
Check against the Safety Data Sheet: Before work starts, get the Safety Data Sheet for the grout supplied and confirm the hazards in section 2, PPE and RPE, first aid, and disposal. Take workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005.

Primer

Task or use: Brushing or rolling onto the prepared floor and wall surfaces before tiling
Route of exposure: Inhalation of vapour, skin contact, eye contact from splashes and ingestion from unwashed hands
Who could be harmed: The two operatives and household members if vapour spreads, from irritation of skin, eyes and airways, headaches and dizziness
Hazards: The hazards depend on the product. Check section 2 of the supplier's Safety Data Sheet. Do not assume it is harmless, and check if it is flammable.
Controls: Substitute with a water-based, low-odour or solvent-free primer where it is suitable
Ventilate the room by keeping the window open and the extract fan running
Apply in small areas, keep lids on tins when not in use, and use a roller or brush to avoid splashing
Keep the household out of the bathroom until the primer is dry, and keep the door closed
Limit the quantity on site and the time spent applying it
Follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE COSHH guidance (L5, the COSHH Approved Code of Practice)
PPE: Gloves to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Eye protection to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
RPE only if the Safety Data Sheet calls for it
Storage and disposal: Keep in the original sealed container, away from heat and ignition sources, out of the reach of children and pets, in a locked van or bathroom when work is in progress. Dispose of leftovers and empty containers as the Safety Data Sheet and local waste rules require, not down household drains. Rags used with it are disposed of as the Safety Data Sheet states.
First aid and spillage: Skin: wash with soap and water. Eyes: rinse with clean water for at least 10 minutes and get medical advice. Inhalation: go into fresh air and get medical advice if unwell. Spillage: stop the leak, absorb with inert material, ventilate the room, keep ignition sources away and bag the waste.
Health surveillance: None expected for this short use. Report any skin or breathing symptoms to the supervisor.
Check against the Safety Data Sheet: Before work starts, get the Safety Data Sheet for the primer supplied and confirm the hazards in section 2, flammability, PPE and RPE, first aid, ventilation and disposal. Take workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005.

Silicone sealant

Task or use: Applying sealant to internal corners and joints around the bath, shower and sanitaryware, once tiling and grouting are done
Route of exposure: Inhalation of vapour while it cures, skin contact and eye contact
Who could be harmed: The operatives and household members, from irritation of skin, eyes and airways
Hazards: The hazards depend on the product. Check section 2 of the supplier's Safety Data Sheet. Some sealants give off irritating vapours as they cure and some can irritate or sensitise skin.
Controls: Substitute with a low-odour or low-emission sealant where it is suitable
Ventilate the room by keeping the window open and the extract fan running while applying and curing
Apply only the amount needed, and keep cartridges closed when not in use
Keep the household out of the bathroom until the sealant has cured as the manufacturer states
Follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE COSHH guidance (L5, the COSHH Approved Code of Practice)
PPE: Gloves to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Eye protection to the specification in the Safety Data Sheet
Storage and disposal: Keep cartridges sealed and out of reach of children and pets. Let waste cure before putting it in general construction waste. Dispose of empty cartridges as the Safety Data Sheet and local rules require.
First aid and spillage: Skin: wipe off and wash with soap and water. Eyes: rinse with clean water for at least 10 minutes and get medical advice. Inhalation: go into fresh air. Spillage: wipe up with absorbent material and ventilate the room.
Health surveillance: None expected for this short use. Report any skin symptoms to the supervisor.
Check against the Safety Data Sheet: Before work starts, get the Safety Data Sheet for the sealant supplied and confirm the hazards in section 2, PPE, first aid, curing time and disposal. Take workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005.

Respirable crystalline silica dust from cutting and grinding ceramic and porcelain tiles and the substrate, and from mixing cement-based products

Task or use: Cutting tiles with the wet tile cutter, cutting and notching with the on-tool extraction angle grinder, preparing the substrate and mixing powder products
Route of exposure: Inhalation of fine dust. Eye contact can cause irritation.
Who could be harmed: The two operatives, and household members nearby if dust spreads, from silicosis, lung disease and lung cancer after repeated exposure
Hazards: Fine dust from silica-containing materials can reach deep into the lungs and cause serious, irreversible disease. Check section 2 of the Safety Data Sheets for the products used and the dust they release.
Controls: Plan the layout to reduce cutting and grinding, and order tile sizes that need less cutting where practicable
Use the wet cutter for straight cuts, and the on-tool extraction angle grinder with an M-class or H-class vacuum on every cut, with water suppression where possible
Keep the bathroom door shut, keep others out and limit the number of cutting tasks and time spent
Clean up with an H-class or M-class vacuum and damp wipes, never dry sweeping or compressed air
Take the exposure limit from HSE EH40/2005, and follow HSE Construction Information Sheet CIS36 'Construction dust'
Follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and HSE COSHH guidance (L5, the COSHH Approved Code of Practice)
PPE: RPE with an assigned protection factor of at least 20 (FFP3 disposable or equivalent), face-fit tested and worn clean shaven
Eye protection
Coveralls that are vacuumed or changed before leaving the work area
Storage and disposal: Collect dry dust and slurry in the vacuum or a sealed container, and put the waste in sealed bags. Do not let slurry run into household drains. Dispose of it as construction waste following local rules.
First aid and spillage: Inhalation: move into fresh air and get medical advice if there are symptoms. Eyes: rinse with clean water. Spillage of dust: vacuum with an M-class or H-class machine or use damp wiping. Never dry sweep or use compressed air.
Health surveillance: Respiratory surveillance is not expected for this short job. If operatives regularly cut silica-containing materials in other work, Craftline Tiling Ltd should consider it under its own health surveillance programme.
Check against the Safety Data Sheet: Confirm from the Safety Data Sheets for the adhesive, grout and tile supplier information whether silica is present, and the PPE and RPE specification. Take workplace exposure limits from HSE EH40/2005.

5. Plant & equipment

Electric wet tile cutter on a stand, supplied through an RCD or 110V supply
Angle grinder with on-tool extraction and diamond disc
M-class or H-class vacuum for on-tool extraction and cleaning
Hand tools: trowels, notched trowels, tile spacers, levels, rubber floats, sponges, tile nippers and rubbing stone
Mixing paddle and bucket
Resistance tester (multimeter) for the underfloor heating mat
Stepladder or low platform checked before use
Portable RCD, 110V transformer if used, and checked leads
Kneeling board, knee pads, trolley, floor protection and signage
Eyewash bottle and first aid kit

6. Materials / COSHH

Ceramic and porcelain tiles, tile adhesive, grout, primer and silicone sealant, plus an electric underfloor heating mat and thermostat. Hazardous substances and the dust created by cutting and mixing are assessed separately in the COSHH assessments. The tiles and the heating mat are not hazardous substances in their own right. Safety Data Sheets for all products must be on site before use.

7. PPE

Safety footwear to BS EN ISO 20345
Gloves to the task and the Safety Data Sheet, and cut-resistant gloves when handling tiles
Eye protection to BS EN 166 when cutting, grinding and mixing
Hearing protection when using the cutter and grinder
RPE with an assigned protection factor of at least 20 (FFP3 disposable or equivalent, to BS EN 149), face-fit tested and worn clean shaven, for cutting and grinding
Knee pads and coveralls
Hi-vis is not required by the client but follow any other client instructions

8. Competence & training

R. Nowak, Tiling Supervisor, holds NVQ Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiling. The operatives hold NVQ Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiling and CSCS cards. The underfloor heating electrical connection is by a qualified electrician with 18th Edition qualification. Operatives are trained in the use of the wet cutter and angle grinder, and RPE face-fit testing is in date for each operative. Everyone has a site briefing on this RAMS, including the stop-work rule for suspect asbestos materials, before starting and signs the sheet. Items to confirm: the in-date face-fit test records, confirmed by R. Nowak before 23 Jun 2026.

9. Permits

Electrical isolation permit for the underfloor heating connection, issued and closed by the qualified electrician
Water isolation agreed with Mrs Aldridge before work starts, and restored on completion
No hot works, confined space or work-at-height permits are expected for this work

10. Access & egress

Access is via the main entrance and the first-floor landing to the bathroom. The agreed route is protected with floor covering, kept clear of materials and tools, and used by operatives only for the work. Materials are brought in and carried up in small loads. The route and escape from the landing to the front door are kept free at all times. Confirm the parking and delivery position with Mrs Aldridge on the pre-start walk.

11. Welfare

Client facilities (toilet, hand washing and drinking water) are available by arrangement with Mrs Aldridge, to be confirmed on the pre-start walk. Operatives bring their own food and drink. Operatives wash hands and skin before eating, drinking and smoking, and do not eat in the work area. If the client facilities are not available, Craftline Tiling Ltd arranges other suitable welfare before work starts.

12. First aid

A first aid kit is kept in the van or work area, and an eyewash bottle is kept in the bathroom. R. Nowak is the first point of contact for first aid, and the supervisor checks the kit is stocked. Report all injuries and incidents to Craftline Tiling Ltd, and record them in the accident book. Dial 999 for serious injury. For skin or eye contact with chemicals, follow the first aid steps in the COSHH assessments.

13. Emergency procedures

In a fire, raise the alarm, leave the house by the nearest safe route, call 999 and meet Mrs Aldridge and the household at the front of the house. Do not fight a fire unless trained and safe. In an electrical incident, do not touch the person until the power is isolated, then call 999 and give first aid. For a water leak, close the stopcock and mop up. For suspect asbestos or an unexpected service, stop work, keep people away, close the room and report it to R. Nowak and Mrs Aldridge. Operatives know where the stopcock and consumer unit are. For serious injury, call 999 and give the address, 18 Hawthorn Close, Bristol.

14. Environmental

Dust is controlled at source with extraction and wet cutting, and cleaned up with an M-class or H-class vacuum. Slurry, grout and adhesive washings are collected in buckets and not tipped into household drains or outside gullies. Waste tiles, packaging and empty containers are taken away by Craftline Tiling Ltd under its duty of care (Environmental Protection Act 1990), using a registered waste carrier. Keep the noise to the agreed hours, and keep the route and the neighbours' access clear. Unused product is taken away, not left in the house.

This document was AI-generated as a drafting aid. It is not a substitute for professional health & safety advice. It must be reviewed, verified and made site-specific by a competent person before use, briefed to all operatives, and updated when site conditions or the method change. The provider accepts no liability for use of this document on site.

Tiling method statement: what it covers

Other samples:Electrical Groundworks Roofing Scaffolding Flat roofing See all 20

Want one like this for your job?

Get your RAMS– it's freeFirst document free, then £15 each. No subscription.