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.
High-Power Electrical Connection & Isolation
Control: Isolate and lock out the supply at the distribution board before connecting rapid or ultra-rapid charge points, testing dead using a proved voltage indicator rated for the system voltage.
Excavation for Sub-Base & Cabling Runs
Control: Conduct a CAT & Genny scan before excavating cable trenches or charger foundations, hand-digging within 0.5m of known service routes.
Manual Handling & Plant Interaction During Groundworks
Control: Segregate pedestrian routes from excavator and plant movement with barriers, using a banksman for all reversing manoeuvres.
Working Near Live Traffic in Car Parks
Control: Segregate the work area from live vehicle routes using barriers and signage while charge points and cabling are installed in car parks.
Load Assessment & DNO Coordination
Control: Confirm the site's electrical supply capacity with the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before installing high-power charging infrastructure, applying load management where required.
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 groundworks needed for charger foundations and cabling?
Yes. It includes a CAT & Genny scanning control before any excavation for cable trenches or charger foundations, alongside the high-power electrical isolation controls specific to rapid charging infrastructure.
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.