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.
Structural Fragility of Historic Fabric
Control: Assess original structure and materials with a heritage-competent surveyor before any intervention, using minimal, reversible methods wherever possible.
Legacy Hazardous Materials (Lead Paint, Asbestos)
Control: Check for lead-based paint and asbestos-containing materials common in older buildings before sanding, cutting or removing any original fabric.
Working at Height on Fragile or Irregular Structures
Control: Use bespoke access equipment suited to the building's irregular or fragile surfaces, avoiding standard fixings into protected historic fabric without approval.
Working Within Listed Building Constraints
Control: Confirm listed building consent and any conservation officer requirements before carrying out work that alters historic fabric.
Manual Handling of Heritage Materials & Artefacts
Control: Handle historic materials and artefacts with care, using appropriate lifting technique and protective packaging to prevent damage.
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 legacy lead paint or asbestos in historic buildings?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a check for lead-based paint and asbestos-containing materials before any original fabric is sanded, cut or removed.
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.