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.
Escape or Contact with Dangerous Animals During Maintenance
Control: Follow the collection's dangerous animal protocol, never entering an enclosure with a dangerous animal present unless it has been securely isolated in a separate den or holding area.
Containment Barrier Integrity During Repair Work
Control: Maintain a secondary containment barrier or keeper presence at all times while the primary enclosure barrier is compromised for repair.
Zoonotic Disease Exposure
Control: Wear gloves and follow hygiene procedures when handling animal waste or enclosure furnishings, particularly in primate and bird enclosures.
Public Access & Visitor Safety During Maintenance
Control: Barrier off and signpost maintenance work carried out in publicly accessible areas, maintaining safe separation from visitors.
Manual Handling of Enclosure Materials & Equipment
Control: Use mechanical aids where possible for heavy enclosure furnishings, fencing panels and construction materials.
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 contact with dangerous animals during enclosure repairs?
Yes. It includes a control requiring the collection's dangerous animal protocol to be followed, with animals securely isolated before any maintenance work begins in the enclosure.
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.