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.
Vehicle Movement in the Yard
Control: Enforce a one-way traffic system and site speed limit where possible, with pedestrian routes clearly marked and segregated from vehicle movement.
Trailer Movement During Loading (Drive-Away)
Control: Use dock levellers with trailer restraint systems or wheel chocks on every vehicle before loading begins, and never load a trailer that isn't confirmed as immobilised.
Falls from Loading Bay Edges
Control: Use edge protection or dock safety gates on any loading bay above ground level, particularly when the bay is unoccupied by a vehicle.
Manual Handling During Loading & Unloading
Control: Use mechanical handling aids (pallet trucks, conveyors) for loading and unloading goods, avoiding manual lifting of heavy or awkward items.
Weather Conditions Affecting Yard Safety
Control: Grit or clear yard surfaces in icy conditions, and reduce vehicle speed limits in poor visibility or heavy rain.
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 a trailer moving away during loading?
Yes. It includes a control requiring trailer restraint systems or wheel chocks to be fitted and confirmed before loading begins on any vehicle at the dock.
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.