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.
Working Around Children During Occupied Hours
Control: Schedule higher-risk tasks (power tools, working at height) outside of pupil contact hours where possible, and barrier off any work area accessible to children during the school day.
Safeguarding & Unsupervised Access to Vulnerable Groups
Control: All operatives to hold a valid DBS check before working unsupervised on site, and sign in/out via the school's visitor procedure at all times.
Manual Handling & Access Equipment in Occupied Corridors
Control: Use warning signage and a spotter when moving equipment or using access towers in corridors during the school day.
Chemical & COSHH Storage Around Children
Control: Store cleaning chemicals and maintenance materials securely away from areas accessible to children at all times.
Working at Height in Occupied Classrooms/Halls
Control: Use appropriate access equipment and barrier off the area beneath, scheduling height work outside of occupied class times where possible.
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 safeguarding requirements for working on a school site?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a valid DBS check before any unsupervised work and sign-in via the school's visitor procedure, reflecting standard safeguarding practice on education sites.
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.