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.
Trench Collapse
Control: Batter, shore or box excavations over 1.2m deep in line with a competent person's assessment. No one enters an unsupported trench.
Striking Buried Services
Control: Conduct a CAT & Genny scan and consult utility drawings before digging. Hand-dig trial holes within 0.5m of known services.
Manual Handling of Pipes & Materials
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for heavy drainage pipes and manhole rings. Team-lift where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Plant & Excavator Movement Near the Trench
Control: Segregate the excavator's swing radius from pedestrian routes with barriers, and use a banksman for all machine movements near the open trench.
Ingress of Water into the Excavation
Control: Monitor for groundwater ingress and use a pump to keep the excavation free of standing water, reassessing trench stability if water is present.
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 excavations near existing services?
Yes. It includes a CAT & Genny scanning step and safe digging practice around buried services, in line with HSE guidance HSG47.
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.