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.
Falls During Rope Access or Cradle Work
Control: Only IRATA-certified operatives to carry out rope access work, with all equipment inspected before each use. Building maintenance units (BMUs) and cradles thoroughly checked under LOLER before use.
Falling Objects to Pedestrians Below
Control: Establish a ground-level exclusion zone using barriers or signage before work begins, particularly on public-facing elevations.
Equipment Failure at Height
Control: Use equipment with current inspection certificates only, and always work with a secondary attachment point as backup to the primary system.
Adverse Weather Affecting High-Level Access
Control: Monitor wind speed and weather forecasts throughout the day, and suspend rope access or cradle work if conditions exceed safe operating limits.
Manual Handling of Water-Fed Pole Equipment
Control: Use correct lifting and carrying technique for water-fed pole systems and backpacks, particularly when working for extended periods.
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 rope access window cleaning specifically?
Yes. It includes controls requiring IRATA-certified operatives and dual attachment points for rope access work, alongside separate controls for cradle and MEWP-based cleaning.
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.