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.
Falls During Rigging / Truss Work
Control: Use a fall arrest system with suitable anchor points when working aloft on trussing or ground support structures. Only competent, harness-trained riggers to work at height.
Structural Overload of Rigging Points
Control: Work strictly within the safe working load (SWL) of every rigging point, chain hoist and truss span. All lifting equipment inspected and certified under LOLER before use.
Falling Tools & Components onto the Crowd Area
Control: Use tool lanyards and secondary safety cables on all rigged components. Establish and maintain an exclusion zone beneath the rig until de-rig is complete.
Manual Handling of Truss & Rigging Components
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids (chain hoists, ground support systems) for heavy truss sections, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Weather Conditions Affecting Outdoor Rigging
Control: Monitor wind speed against the structure's rated limits throughout the build and event, with a stop-work and de-rig trigger if conditions are exceeded.
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 load ratings of rigging points and chain hoists?
Yes. It includes a control requiring all lifting equipment to be worked within its safe working load and inspected and certified under LOLER 1998 before use.
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.