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 & Reversing on Site
Control: Use a banksman for all reversing manoeuvres on site, and maintain segregation between the collection vehicle and pedestrians during loading.
Manual Handling of Waste Materials
Control: Assess loose waste for weight and sharp/hazardous items before handling, and use mechanical aids (grabs, hoists) for skip movement rather than manual tipping where possible.
Sharps & Contaminated Waste Exposure
Control: Wear cut-resistant gloves at all times when handling mixed waste, and never sort waste by hand without first visually checking for sharps or hazardous items.
Skip Overloading & Load Stability
Control: Do not overload skips beyond their rated capacity, and secure or sheet loose loads before transport to prevent material falling from the vehicle.
Working Near Overhead Power Lines During Lifting
Control: Identify and maintain safe clearance from overhead power lines before raising or tipping skips near them.
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 vehicle movement during skip collection?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a banksman for reversing manoeuvres and clear segregation between the collection vehicle and pedestrians during loading.
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.