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 at Height for Ceiling-Mounted Detectors
Control: Use a podium step or tower for detector installation above 2m. Never overreach from a stepladder.
Electric Shock During Panel Wiring
Control: Isolate and prove dead at the fire panel and local supply before connecting wiring. Use a proved voltage indicator before working live.
Disruption to Live Fire Systems in Occupied Buildings
Control: Notify the building's responsible person before isolating any part of the system, and reinstate full alarm cover at the end of each working day.
False Alarm Activation During Testing
Control: Notify the building's responsible person and monitoring station before testing to prevent an unwanted call-out or evacuation, and confirm the system is reset correctly afterwards.
Manual Handling & Cable Routing in Ceiling Voids
Control: Use adequate task lighting and check for asbestos-containing materials before disturbing ceiling tiles in older buildings when routing cabling.
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 working on a live fire alarm system in an occupied building?
Yes. It includes controls for notifying the responsible person and restoring full alarm cover, since isolating any part of a fire system in an occupied building affects everyone on site.
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.