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.
Electric Shock from Live Power Distribution (UPS, PDUs)
Control: Isolate and lock off the specific circuit or rack PDU before intervention where possible, using insulated tools when working near live busbars that cannot be isolated.
Accidental Discharge of Gas Fire Suppression Systems
Control: Notify the building's responsible person and place the suppression system in maintenance/hold mode before any work that could trigger a false alarm.
Manual Handling of Servers & Rack Equipment
Control: Use a server lift or two-person team for heavy rack-mounted equipment, sliding units onto rails rather than lifting freehand where possible.
Raised Floor & Cable Management Hazards
Control: Use correct floor tile lifting tools and replace tiles securely after accessing under-floor cabling, avoiding trip hazards from open floor voids.
Working in Cold Aisle/Hot Aisle Environments
Control: Be aware of temperature extremes between cold and hot aisles, and avoid blocking airflow paths while working.
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 accidentally triggering the gas fire suppression system?
Yes. It includes a control requiring the suppression system to be placed in maintenance/hold mode before work that could trigger a false discharge, protecting both people and equipment.
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.