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.
Cuts from Handling Glazed Units
Control: Use glass-handling gloves and suction lifters for sealed glazed units, carrying panes vertically and never gripping by the edges alone.
Structural Opening Instability During Removal
Control: Support the head of the opening with temporary propping before removing the old frame on load-bearing openings, particularly on larger patio door installations.
Falls from Height (Upper Floor Installations)
Control: Use an appropriate tower or MEWP for upper-floor window installations, with ladders restricted to short-duration ground floor work only.
Sealing & Weatherproofing New Frames
Control: Seal all frame-to-wall junctions correctly on completion to prevent water ingress, following the manufacturer's installation guidance.
Disposal of Old Frames & Glazing
Control: Store removed frames and broken glazing safely away from walkways, and dispose of them via a licensed waste carrier.
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 structural risk of removing a large patio door opening?
Yes. It includes a control requiring temporary propping to support the head of the opening before the old frame is removed on load-bearing installations.
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.