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.
Exposure to Unknown or Mixed Hazardous Waste
Control: Identify and classify waste before handling using available data sheets or a competent assessment, and never mix incompatible waste streams together.
Spills During Handling or Transport
Control: Use compliant, correctly labelled containers for the specific waste type, and keep spill kits available at the point of loading and on the transporting vehicle.
Incorrect Documentation & Consignment Notes
Control: Complete a consignment note for every movement of hazardous waste before it leaves site, confirming the receiving site is licensed to accept that waste type.
Manual Handling of Hazardous Waste Containers
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for heavy or bulky hazardous waste containers, avoiding manual handling of drums exceeding safe lifting limits.
Vehicle Loading & Segregation of Incompatible Waste
Control: Segregate incompatible waste types during vehicle loading in line with the Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations, securing containers against movement in transit.
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 consignment note requirements for hazardous waste?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a consignment note to be completed for every movement of hazardous waste, confirming the receiving site is licensed to accept that specific waste type.
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.