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.
Racking Collapse During Installation
Control: Install racking strictly to the manufacturer's design and loading specification, with base plates fixed and frames braced before any loading. Have the installation checked by a SEMA-qualified inspector before handover.
Falls from MEWPs & Access Platforms
Control: Only trained and certified operatives (IPAF) to use MEWPs or scissor lifts, with harnesses worn in boom-type platforms in line with the manufacturer's guidance.
Manual Handling of Racking Components
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for heavy upright frames and beams. Team-lift where mechanical aids aren't practical, keeping loads close to the body.
Working Around Live Warehouse Operations
Control: Segregate the installation area from live picking and MHE traffic routes using barriers, coordinating with warehouse management.
Floor Loading & Anchor Fixing
Control: Confirm floor loading capacity and use anchors rated for the racking design before fixing base plates.
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 SEMA inspection requirements for racking installation?
Yes. It includes a control requiring installation to be checked by a SEMA-qualified inspector before handover, in line with industry good practice for racking safety.
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.