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.
Exposure to Pesticides & Rodenticides
Control: Follow the COSHH data sheet and product label for every pesticide or rodenticide used. Use appropriate RPE and avoid application in occupied areas without agreed access controls.
Working in Roof Voids, Cellars & Confined Spaces
Control: Assess ventilation and access before entering confined spaces. Use adequate task lighting and keep a second person aware of the work location.
Bites, Stings & Zoonotic Disease Risk
Control: Wear appropriate gloves when handling traps, bait stations or carcasses, and follow hygiene procedures to reduce the risk of disease transmission (e.g. Weil's disease from rodent contact).
Working Around Children & Pets on Domestic Sites
Control: Confirm children and pets are kept away from treated areas and bait stations, using tamper-resistant stations where domestic access is possible.
Manual Handling of Traps & Bait Station Equipment
Control: Use correct lifting technique when carrying and positioning bait stations and equipment around the site.
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 safe use of pesticides and rodenticides?
Yes. It includes COSHH-based controls requiring the product label and data sheet to be followed for every treatment, along with RPE and access controls for occupied areas.
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.