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.
Refrigerant Gas Leak in Plant Areas
Control: Fit and maintain gas detection in refrigeration plant rooms, evacuating and ventilating immediately if an alarm is triggered and never re-entering until confirmed safe.
Cold Stress from Prolonged Slope & Plant Exposure
Control: Limit continuous time in sub-zero slope and plant areas in line with a documented cold-work schedule, with warm-up breaks in a heated area at regular intervals.
Machinery Use for Snow Grooming & Piste Maintenance
Control: Only trained operatives to use snow grooming machinery, maintaining safe separation from public areas during operation.
Working at Height on Slope Structures & Netting
Control: Use appropriate access equipment when inspecting or repairing high-level slope structures, safety netting and lighting rigs.
Public Interaction During Maintenance
Control: Close or barrier off the area being maintained from public slope users, coordinating timing with facility operations.
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 refrigerant leak risks specific to indoor snow facilities?
Yes. It includes a control requiring gas detection to be fitted and maintained in refrigeration plant rooms, with immediate evacuation and ventilation if an alarm is triggered.
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.