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.
Handling Pressurised Extinguishers
Control: Visually inspect each extinguisher for damage or corrosion before pressure testing, and never fully discharge or test-fire an extinguisher indoors without adequate ventilation.
Access to Fire Panels & Equipment in Plant Rooms
Control: Use adequate task lighting and check the immediate area is clear before working in plant rooms or riser cupboards.
Disruption to Live Fire Systems in Occupied Buildings
Control: Notify the building's responsible person before isolating any part of the fire system, and reinstate full cover at the end of each working day.
Manual Handling of Extinguishers & Fire Equipment
Control: Use correct lifting technique when carrying and repositioning extinguishers and fire equipment around the building.
Recording Servicing & Compliance Records
Control: Complete and leave a service record/tag on each item serviced, updating the building's fire safety log in line with BS 5306.
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 isolating fire systems in an occupied building during servicing?
Yes. It includes controls for notifying the responsible person and restoring full alarm cover, since isolating any part of a fire system in an occupied building affects everyone on site.
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.