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.
Undisclosed Hazardous Materials in Older Housing Stock
Control: Check the property's asbestos register before starting, and stop work immediately if suspect materials are disturbed during strip-out or repair.
Access to Properties with Unknown Occupancy History
Control: Conduct a walk-through hazard check (sharps, biohazards, structural damage) before starting work in a void property.
Manual Handling of Fixtures & Waste During Clearance
Control: Use trolleys and team-lift heavy fixtures such as baths and kitchen units removed during the turnaround.
Security & Lone Working in Empty Properties
Control: Follow a lone worker check-in procedure when attending void properties, and secure the property on completion each day.
Utility Isolation Before Works Begin
Control: Confirm gas, electricity and water supplies are safely isolated or reconnected as appropriate before turnaround works begin.
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 asbestos in older housing stock?
Yes. It includes a control requiring the property's asbestos register to be checked before work starts, with a stop-work procedure if suspect materials are disturbed.
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.