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/Excavation Collapse
Control: Batter, shore or box excavations over 1.2m deep in line with a competent person's assessment. No one enters an unsupported excavation, and spoil is kept back from the edge.
Striking Buried Services
Control: Conduct a CAT & Genny scan and consult utility drawings before digging. Hand-dig trial holes within 0.5m of known service routes.
Plant & Pedestrian Interaction
Control: Segregate excavator swing radius from pedestrian routes with barriers, and use a banksman for all excavator movements near the excavation edge.
Working Near Existing Building Foundations
Control: Assess the risk of undermining neighbouring structures before excavating close to existing foundations, seeking engineer input where required.
Manual Handling of Reinforcement & Formwork
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids or team-lift for steel reinforcement bars and formwork, keeping loads close to the body.
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 excavation collapse risks for deep foundations?
Yes. It includes a control requiring battering, shoring or boxing of any excavation over 1.2m deep, assessed by a competent person, in line with HSE guidance on excavation safety.
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.