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.
Working in an Occupied Shopping Centre/Retail Park
Control: Agree permitted working hours and delivery routes with centre management, and barrier off the work area from public access at all times.
Power Tool Use & Dust Generation Near Trading Units
Control: Use dust extraction on cutting equipment and seal the work area to prevent dust migrating into neighbouring occupied units.
Manual Handling of Shopfitting Materials & Fixtures
Control: Use trolleys and mechanical aids for heavy shelving, glazing and joinery units, particularly when moving through shared mall or service corridors.
Working Outside Permitted Hours
Control: Confirm agreed working hours with centre management, scheduling noisy or disruptive work outside trading hours where required.
Fire Compartmentation During Fit-Out
Control: Maintain fire compartmentation and escape routes throughout the fit-out, reinstating any fire-stopping disturbed during the works.
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 in an occupied shopping centre alongside trading units?
Yes. It includes controls for agreeing working hours and delivery routes with centre management and sealing the work area to protect neighbouring trading units from dust and noise.
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.