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 Scaffold During Board Fixing & Rendering
Control: Use a properly erected scaffold with guardrails for all EWI fixing and finishing above 2m, checking the handover tag before first use each day.
Fire Safety of the Insulation & Render System
Control: Install fire breaks and cavity barriers strictly to the specified system build-up, particularly around openings and at each floor level, and confirm the system's fire classification matches the building's requirements.
Exposure to Render & Adhesive Dust/Chemicals
Control: Follow the COSHH data sheet for basecoat, adhesive and render products, wearing appropriate RPE when mixing or sanding.
Weather Sensitivity of Basecoat & Render Application
Control: Check temperature and rainfall forecasts before applying basecoat or render, avoiding application in frost or immediately before heavy rain.
Manual Handling of Insulation Boards & Render Bags
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for insulation board bundles and render bags moved up scaffold access, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
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 fire safety requirements for EWI systems?
Yes. It includes a control requiring fire breaks and cavity barriers to be installed strictly to the specified system build-up, reflecting increased regulatory scrutiny on external wall insulation systems.
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.