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.
Entanglement in PTO Shafts & Moving Parts
Control: Ensure all PTO shaft guards are fitted and in good condition before use. Isolate and stop all moving parts before carrying out any maintenance or clearing blockages.
Overturning of Tractors & Machinery on Slopes
Control: Assess ground conditions and gradient before operating machinery on sloped land, and only operate within the manufacturer's stated safe limits.
Manual Handling of Feed, Bales & Equipment
Control: Use mechanical handling equipment (telehandlers, loaders) for heavy bales and feed sacks wherever possible, rather than manual lifting.
Livestock & Public Interaction with Moving Machinery
Control: Maintain a safe distance between operating machinery and livestock, members of the public or other workers on the farm.
Noise Exposure from Machinery Operation
Control: Wear hearing protection during prolonged operation of tractors and farm machinery, particularly in enclosed cab environments with poor sound insulation.
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 entanglement in PTO shafts?
Yes. It includes a control requiring PTO shaft guards to be fitted and all moving parts fully isolated before maintenance or clearing blockages, reflecting one of the most common causes of serious injury in agriculture.
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.