Applicable Regulations
Method Statement — Sequence of Work
- Review this RAMS and confirm site conditions match those described before work begins.
- Brief all operatives on the hazards, controls and PPE requirements below (toolbox talk).
- Check and don all required PPE, and inspect tools and equipment before use.
- Carry out the task in line with the control measures set out in the Hazard & Risk Assessment section below.
- Maintain good housekeeping throughout — keep the work area tidy and manage waste and materials safely.
- On completion, remove tools and equipment, restore the work area, and report any incidents, near misses or changes in site conditions to the site supervisor.
- Complete the sign-off section at the end of this document before leaving site.
Hazard & Risk Assessment
Each hazard is assessed against a standard Likelihood × Severity matrix. “Initial Risk” reflects the risk before any control measures are applied; “Residual Risk” reflects the risk once the stated controls are correctly implemented on site.
Falling Into Water from Pontoons, Cages or Boats
Control: Wear a buoyancy aid at all times when working over or near open water, keeping life rings and rescue equipment accessible at the work location.
Manual Handling of Feed, Nets & Equipment
Control: Use mechanical feeders and winches for heavy feed sacks and nets wherever possible, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Entanglement in Nets & Mooring Lines
Control: Keep nets and mooring lines tidy and clear of walkways, carrying a cutting tool suitable for quickly freeing entanglement if it occurs.
Weather & Sea Conditions Affecting Site Operations
Control: Monitor weather and sea state forecasts before working on pontoons, cages or vessels, suspending operations in conditions exceeding safe limits.
Working Near Boat Engines & Machinery
Control: Keep clear of propellers and running machinery when working from or around vessels, following the vessel's safe working procedure.
Required PPE
Emergency Procedures
Fire
Stop work immediately, raise the alarm and evacuate to the designated assembly point. Do not attempt to fight a fire beyond your training. Call 999 once safely evacuated if the fire brigade has not already been alerted.
First Aid / Injury
Stop work and alert the nearest first aider or site supervisor. For a serious injury, call 999 immediately and do not move a casualty unless there is immediate danger.
Spillage / Environmental Incident
Stop work, contain the spill using the site's spill kit if safe to do so, and report it to the site supervisor immediately. Do not allow any spillage to enter a drain or watercourse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this RAMS cover the risk of falling into water while working on pontoons or cages?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a buoyancy aid to be worn at all times when working over or near open water, with rescue equipment kept accessible throughout.
Do I need to keep a copy of this RAMS on site?
Yes. HSE guidance expects a copy of the RAMS — along with the completed sign-off section — to be available on site for the duration of the work, and reviewed if site conditions change.