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 Steps or Ladders When Fitting Poles/Tracks
Control: Use a properly footed stepladder or podium for fitting above head height, never overreaching or standing on furniture.
Drilling into Walls & Ceilings (Hidden Services)
Control: Check for hidden pipework or wiring before drilling fixing points, wearing eye protection throughout.
Manual Handling of Heavy Curtains, Poles & Motorised Blinds
Control: Use correct lifting technique for long curtain poles and heavy motorised blind units, particularly when working above stairwells.
Motorised Blind Electrical Connection
Control: Isolate the local circuit before wiring hard-wired motorised blinds, and test dead before making any electrical connection.
Child Safety Cord & Chain Compliance
Control: Fit cleats, cord tidies or breakaway devices to comply with BS EN 13120 child safety requirements for corded blinds.
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 drilling into hidden services when fitting curtain poles?
Yes. It includes a control requiring a check for hidden pipework or wiring before drilling any fixing point for poles, tracks or brackets.
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.