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.
Crush & Trap Hazards from Moving Gate Leaves
Control: Fit and test safety edges, photocells and force-limiting devices before handover, confirming the gate meets the required safety standard (BS EN 12453) before commissioning.
Electric Shock During Motor & Control Panel Wiring
Control: Isolate and lock off the supply before wiring gate motors and control panels, testing dead before making any connection.
Manual Handling of Heavy Gate Leaves & Posts
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids or a minimum two-person team to position gate leaves and posts, supporting the structure fully during installation.
Foundation & Post Excavation for Gate Posts
Control: Conduct a CAT & Genny scan before excavating for gate posts and foundations, and allow concrete foundations to fully cure before loading.
Manual Override & Emergency Release
Control: Confirm the manual override/emergency release function operates correctly before handover, in case of power failure or fault.
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 safety testing required for automated gates?
Yes. It includes a control requiring safety edges, photocells and force-limiting devices to be fitted and tested against BS EN 12453 before the gate is commissioned and handed over.
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.