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.
Machinery Use Around Players & the Public (Mowers, Aerators)
Control: Use only guarded, well-maintained equipment, and pause or reroute machinery work when players are approaching the area being maintained.
Exposure to Fertilisers & Turf Treatment Chemicals
Control: Follow the COSHH data sheet and product label for every treatment applied, observing the specified re-entry period before the area reopens to play.
Working Near Irrigation Infrastructure & Water Features
Control: Isolate the relevant irrigation zone before working on pipework or sprinkler heads, and be aware of water hazard edges when working near ponds or lakes.
Manual Handling of Course Maintenance Equipment
Control: Use correct lifting technique and mechanical aids for heavy bunker sand, turf and maintenance equipment.
Working Near Water Hazards on the Course
Control: Assess the risk of falling into water hazards before working near pond or lake edges on the course, using appropriate care or barriers.
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 working safely around players while maintaining the course?
Yes. It includes a control requiring machinery work to be paused or rerouted when players are approaching the area being maintained.
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.