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.
Gas Leaks
Control: Carry out a tightness test before and after servicing. Use a calibrated gas detector and isolate the supply immediately if a leak is found.
Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Control: Check flue integrity and terminal clearances, use a CO analyser on all combustion appliances, and never leave a suspect appliance in use.
Working in Confined Spaces (Airing Cupboards/Lofts)
Control: Assess ventilation and access before starting. Use task lighting and keep a second person aware of the work location.
Handling Hot Components During Servicing
Control: Allow the appliance to cool before removing casings or handling heat exchangers, and wear heat-resistant gloves when handling hot components.
Electrical Isolation of the Appliance
Control: Isolate the electrical supply to the boiler before removing any casing or accessing internal components, testing dead before touching electrical parts.
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 confirm I'm Gas Safe registered?
No — the RAMS is a risk assessment document, not proof of registration. You must still be Gas Safe registered to legally carry out this work, and your registration number should be added to the document separately.
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.