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.
Exposure to Adhesive & Levelling Compound Fumes
Control: Follow the COSHH data sheet for flooring adhesives and self-levelling compounds. Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in occupied properties.
Cutting Tool Use (Flooring Knives, Underlay Saws)
Control: Use guarded cutting tools with sharp, replaceable blades to reduce slip risk. Cut away from the body and keep the work area clear of trip hazards.
Manual Handling of Flooring Rolls & Boxed Materials
Control: Use a roll trolley for large vinyl rolls and avoid twisting when lifting boxed laminate/LVT packs from floor to worktop height.
Kneeling & Repetitive Strain During Installation
Control: Use knee pads and take regular breaks during prolonged kneeling or crouching while laying flooring.
Removing Existing Floor Coverings (Legacy Materials)
Control: Treat older adhesives and floor tiles as potentially containing asbestos until tested, and avoid dry sanding or grinding legacy floor coverings.
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 adhesives and levelling compounds used in flooring work?
Yes. It includes COSHH-based controls for handling flooring adhesives, primers and self-levelling compounds safely.
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.