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 High-Voltage Battery Systems
Control: Follow the site's lock-out/tag-out procedure and confirm zero energy state using rated test equipment before any intervention on battery racks or inverters.
Thermal Runaway & Fire Risk from Damaged Cells
Control: Monitor cell temperature and gas detection systems continuously, evacuating and following the site's thermal event procedure immediately if triggered.
Manual Handling of Battery Modules
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for heavy battery modules, and mount or position units in line with the manufacturer's handling guidance.
Fire Suppression System Interaction
Control: Confirm the fire suppression system status before working within the enclosure, and avoid triggering an unintended discharge.
Working in Extreme Temperature Environments
Control: Monitor container/enclosure temperature before entry, as battery storage sites can reach extreme temperatures during fault conditions.
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 thermal runaway in damaged battery cells?
Yes. It includes a control requiring continuous monitoring of cell temperature and gas detection systems, with an immediate evacuation and thermal event procedure if triggered.
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.