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 Plaster & Silica Dust
Control: Use dust extraction on sanding tools, wear an FFP3 mask, and damp-down surfaces before sanding where practical, in line with COSHH 2002.
Falls from Trestles/Podium Steps
Control: Use properly boarded trestle platforms with guardrails for ceiling work above 2m. Never stand on buckets or improvised platforms.
Manual Handling of Plaster Bags & Boards
Control: Use a two-person lift or trolley for plasterboard sheets and bagged materials. Store bags at waist height to reduce repeated bending.
Skin Contact with Wet Plaster
Control: Wear waterproof gloves when mixing and applying wet plaster to prevent skin irritation and cement-type burns from prolonged contact.
Slips on Plaster Spillage/Wet Floors
Control: Clean up plaster spillage and mixing residue promptly, and use protective floor coverings to prevent slip hazards in the work area.
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 ceiling work at height?
Yes. It includes controls for safe access equipment when plastering ceilings or high walls, in line with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
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.