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.
Unstable or Subsided Ground Around Older Graves
Control: Visually assess ground condition before operating machinery near older grave plots, and avoid heavy plant on areas showing signs of subsidence.
Leaning or Unstable Headstones
Control: Follow the site's headstone safety testing procedure before working near memorials, temporarily supporting or cordoning off any found to be unstable.
Machinery Use (Mowers, Strimmers) Around Memorials & Visitors
Control: Use only guarded, well-maintained equipment, and maintain a respectful working distance from visitors and services in progress.
Working Near Grieving Visitors & Services
Control: Maintain a respectful distance and pause noisy machinery work during funeral services or when visitors are present at nearby graves.
Manual Handling of Grounds Equipment & Memorial Materials
Control: Use correct lifting technique and mechanical aids where possible for heavy mowers, edging equipment and memorial materials.
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 unstable or leaning headstones during grounds maintenance?
Yes. It includes a control requiring the site's headstone safety testing procedure to be followed, with unstable memorials temporarily supported or cordoned off before nearby work continues.
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.