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.
Decompression Illness
Control: Plan and follow appropriate decompression procedures for the dive profile, with a diving supervisor monitoring dive time and depth throughout.
Loss of Air Supply or Equipment Failure
Control: Conduct full pre-dive equipment checks, and maintain a stand-by diver ready to assist within the time required for the dive's risk profile.
Entanglement or Entrapment Underwater
Control: Assess the dive site for entanglement hazards (lines, nets, structures) before entry, and carry a cutting tool suitable for the diver's equipment.
Cold Water & Hypothermia Risk
Control: Use appropriate thermal protection for water temperature and dive duration, monitoring divers for signs of cold stress.
Surface Vessel & Boat Traffic Hazards
Control: Display dive flags/signals and maintain a surface lookout to warn other vessels of diving operations in progress.
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 requirement for a diving supervisor and stand-by diver?
Yes. It includes controls requiring a diving supervisor to monitor the dive and a stand-by diver ready to assist, in line with the Diving at Work Regulations 1997 and HSE ACOP L104.
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.