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.
Fire & Explosion Risk from Pyrotechnic Devices
Control: Only a qualified pyrotechnician to handle, rig and fire pyrotechnic devices, with a fire extinguisher and trained fire watch present at every firing.
Injury to Cast & Crew from Effects
Control: Establish and brief a clear minimum safe distance for all cast and crew before any effect is fired, with a dedicated effects safety briefing before the first take involving pyrotechnics.
Storage & Transport of Pyrotechnic Materials
Control: Store all pyrotechnic materials in a licensed, secure store away from the set, and transport only the quantity needed for the immediate scene.
Environmental & Smoke/Fume Effects
Control: Use effects materials in line with COSHH data sheets, ensuring adequate ventilation and monitoring air quality where smoke or haze effects are used in enclosed sets.
Post-Effect Area Clearance & Debris
Control: Clear and inspect the area for unexploded or hazardous debris after each effect before cast and crew re-enter.
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 qualifications required to handle pyrotechnics?
The RAMS sets out the on-set safety controls, but only a qualified, licensed pyrotechnician may handle, rig or fire pyrotechnic devices under the Explosives Regulations 2014 — confirming that qualification remains the production's responsibility.
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.