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.
Working on Live/Isolated Circuits
Control: Isolate and lock off the full installation at the consumer unit before starting. Test dead using a proved voltage indicator (GS38) before touching any conductor.
Chasing Walls & Lifting Floorboards (Hidden Services/Asbestos)
Control: Check for other services and any asbestos survey before chasing walls or lifting older floor coverings. Use dust extraction on chasing tools.
Working in Roof Voids & Under Floors
Control: Use adequate task lighting and lay crawl boards across joists. Keep a second person aware of the work location and expected duration.
Dust from Chasing Walls for Cabling
Control: Use dust extraction on chasing tools and wear an FFP3 mask when cutting chases into plaster or masonry walls.
Disruption to Occupants During a Live-In Rewire
Control: Agree a room-by-room sequence with the occupant, maintaining power to essential circuits where possible and confirming isolation times in advance.
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 isolating the whole property during a rewire?
Yes. It includes full isolation and lock-out/tag-out steps at the consumer unit before any work begins, along with safe testing procedures before touching conductors.
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.