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 from Height During Cladding Fixing
Control: Use a properly designed scaffold or MEWP with edge protection for all cladding fixing above 2m, never relying on ladders for panel installation.
Fire Safety of Cladding Materials & Cavity Barriers
Control: Install cavity barriers and fire-stopping strictly to the specified system design, and confirm the cladding material meets the project's fire classification before fixing.
Manual Handling of Cladding Panels
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids (vacuum lifters, panel hoists) for large composite or metal panels, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Wind Loading & Weather Sensitivity During Fixing
Control: Check wind speed forecasts before lifting and fixing large, lightweight cladding panels, which are particularly sensitive to gusts at height.
Sealing & Weatherproofing Panel Joints
Control: Seal all panel joints and penetrations correctly to the system specification to prevent water ingress behind the cladding.
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 fire safety requirements for cladding systems?
Yes. It includes a control requiring cavity barriers and fire-stopping to be installed strictly to the specified system design, reflecting the increased scrutiny on external wall fire safety following Building Regulations changes.
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.