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.
Excavation & Underpinning Collapse Risk
Control: Excavate and underpin in short, engineer-designed sections, with each section supported before the next is opened, never leaving unsupported ground beneath a load-bearing wall.
Working in a Confined Below-Ground Space
Control: Assess ventilation before entry and throughout the works, keeping a second person aware of the work location and using forced ventilation where needed.
Exposure to Tanking Membrane & Waterproofing Chemicals
Control: Follow the COSHH data sheet for tanking slurries, membranes and adhesives, ensuring adequate ventilation during application.
Groundwater Management During Excavation
Control: Use a sump pump or dewatering system to manage groundwater ingress during excavation, monitoring water levels throughout.
Manual Handling in a Restricted Below-Ground Space
Control: Use mechanical aids or chutes for moving spoil and materials in and out of the basement excavation where headroom is restricted.
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 underpinning risks involved in lowering a basement floor?
Yes. It includes a control requiring excavation and underpinning to proceed in short, engineer-designed sections, with each section supported before the next is opened.
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.