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.
Injury from Incorrect Moving & Handling Technique
Control: Complete a person-specific moving and handling plan before any transfer, and only use techniques and equipment (hoists, slings) that staff are trained and assessed as competent to use.
Hoist or Sling Equipment Failure
Control: Check hoists and slings are within their LOLER inspection date and visually inspect for damage before every use, taking any suspect equipment out of service immediately.
Resident/Patient Falls During Transfer
Control: Assess the individual's mobility and cognitive state before each transfer, and never attempt a transfer alone if the care plan specifies two carers are required.
Manual Handling in Confined Domestic/Bedroom Spaces
Control: Assess the available space around the bed or chair before a transfer, repositioning furniture where needed to allow safe hoist or manual handling technique.
Challenging Behaviour During Personal Care
Control: Follow the individual's care plan and behaviour support strategy, and never carry out a procedure alone if the care plan indicates a risk of challenging behaviour.
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 LOLER inspection requirements for hoists and slings?
Yes. It includes a control requiring hoists and slings to be within their LOLER inspection date and visually checked before every use, with suspect equipment taken out of service immediately.
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.