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.
Falls from Ladders & Step Stools
Control: Use the right access equipment for the task and height involved. Ladders footed and secured, with three points of contact maintained at all times.
Power Tool Use Across Varied Tasks
Control: Only use tools with a current PAT test and correct guard fitted for the specific task. Confirm competency with each tool type before use.
Manual Handling of Varied/Unpredictable Loads
Control: Assess each item individually before lifting, given the varied nature of handyman work, and use a trolley or team-lift for heavier or awkward items.
Working Outside Own Competence
Control: Do not undertake work outside the operative's training or competence (e.g. gas, electrical or structural work) — refer such tasks to an appropriately qualified/registered trade.
Working in Occupied Domestic Properties
Control: Keep the work area tidy and tools secured away from children and pets when working in an occupied home.
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 work for a varied handyman job involving multiple small tasks?
Yes. It's designed as a general baseline covering the most common handyman risks — ladder access, power tools and manual handling — suitable for typical mixed-task property maintenance visits.
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.