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.
Cold Stress from Prolonged Exposure
Control: Limit continuous time in sub-zero or chilled areas in line with a documented cold-work schedule, with warm-up breaks in a heated area at regular intervals.
Refrigerant Gas Leak in Plant Areas
Control: Fit and maintain gas detection in refrigeration plant rooms, and evacuate immediately and ventilate the area if an alarm is triggered, never re-entering until confirmed safe.
Slips on Ice or Condensation Build-Up
Control: Inspect floors regularly for ice or condensation build-up at door thresholds and around plant, and grit or clear as needed.
MHE Operation in Cold Storage Areas
Control: Confirm MHE is rated for cold storage use, and check visibility and windscreen condition regularly as condensation and frost can build up quickly.
Manual Handling in Restricted PPE & Cold Conditions
Control: Account for reduced dexterity and grip when handling loads in cold-store gloves and clothing, using mechanical aids wherever possible.
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 cold stress risks from working in sub-zero storage?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a documented cold-work schedule with limited continuous exposure time and warm-up breaks in a heated area.
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.