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.
Kick, Bite & Crush Injuries from Horses
Control: Approach and handle horses only using established yard procedures, never entering a stable or working close behind a horse without the handler's awareness.
Manual Handling of Feed, Bedding & Muck
Control: Use mechanical handling equipment for heavy feed sacks and bedding bales wherever possible, and use a barrow or mechanical mucker for muck removal.
Slips & Trips on Yard Surfaces
Control: Keep yard walkways clear of loose bedding, tools and hoses, and grit or clear surfaces in icy conditions.
Working Near Loose or Turned-Out Horses
Control: Maintain awareness of loose or turned-out horses when moving around the yard and paddocks, using established gates and catch procedures.
Fire Risk from Stored Hay & Bedding
Control: Store hay, straw and bedding away from ignition sources and electrical equipment, in a well-ventilated area to reduce spontaneous combustion risk.
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 kick or crush injuries from horses?
Yes. It includes a control requiring horses to be approached and handled only using established yard procedures, with no working close behind a horse without the handler's awareness.
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.