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.
Crush & Kick Injuries from Livestock
Control: Use appropriate handling facilities (crushes, races, pens) for any close-contact procedure, and never work alone with cattle or in a confined space with an animal showing aggressive behaviour.
Zoonotic Disease Exposure
Control: Wear gloves for all handling of afterbirth, faeces or sick animals, and follow good hygiene practice (handwashing, covering cuts) to reduce the risk of diseases such as leptospirosis or E. coli.
Manual Handling of Feed & Bedding
Control: Use mechanical handling equipment for heavy feed sacks and bedding bales wherever possible, rather than repeated manual lifting.
Handling Aggressive or Distressed Animals
Control: Assess animal behaviour before approaching, and never handle an aggressive or distressed animal alone without appropriate facilities.
Slips & Trips in Livestock Areas
Control: Keep walkways and handling areas clear of slurry, loose bedding and equipment to reduce slip and trip hazards.
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 zoonotic disease from livestock contact?
Yes. It includes hygiene and PPE controls specifically aimed at reducing the risk of diseases that can pass from livestock to humans, such as leptospirosis.
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.