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.
Refrigerant Gas Exposure/Release
Control: Only F-Gas certified engineers to handle refrigerant. Use recovery equipment to capture refrigerant rather than venting, and check for leaks before and after commissioning.
Electric Shock During Wiring of Indoor/Outdoor Units
Control: Isolate and lock off the circuit at the consumer unit before wiring. Test dead using a proved voltage indicator before working on any electrical connections.
Working at Height for Outdoor Unit/Wall Bracket Mounting
Control: Use an appropriate tower or MEWP for elevated outdoor unit positions. Never overreach from a stepladder when fitting wall brackets.
Condensate Drainage & Water Damage
Control: Route and test the condensate drain line before handover to prevent water leaks or damage to the property.
Manual Handling of Indoor & Outdoor Units
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids or a two-person lift for indoor and outdoor unit bodies, particularly when mounting outdoor units at height.
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 F-Gas refrigerant handling requirements?
Yes. It includes controls requiring F-Gas certification and correct refrigerant recovery procedures, in line with the F-Gas Regulations 2015.
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.