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.
Crane & Container Lifting Operations
Control: Plan every lift in line with a documented lifting plan, using tested and certified lifting gear, with a clear exclusion zone beneath suspended loads.
Vehicle & Plant Movement on the Quayside
Control: Follow the port's traffic management plan, with segregated pedestrian routes and a banksman for all reversing manoeuvres near the quay edge.
Falls into Water from the Quay Edge
Control: Use edge protection or clearly marked exclusion zones along the quay edge, with lifebuoys and rescue equipment accessible at regular intervals.
Manual Handling of Cargo & Lashing Equipment
Control: Use mechanical aids for heavy lashing equipment and cargo, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Weather Conditions Affecting Lifting Operations
Control: Suspend crane and lifting operations in high winds exceeding the equipment's rated limits, or in poor visibility.
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 the water from the quay edge?
Yes. It includes a control requiring edge protection or marked exclusion zones along the quay, with lifebuoys and rescue equipment kept accessible at regular intervals.
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.