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.
Slips from Water Damage & Wet Surfaces
Control: Isolate the water supply at the earliest opportunity and use wet-floor signage and matting around the affected area throughout the repair.
Access to Concealed Pipework (Under Floors, Behind Walls)
Control: Assess the safest access route before lifting floorboards or opening walls, and check for other services before cutting into any concealed void.
Lone Working on Emergency Call-Outs
Control: Follow a lone worker check-in procedure, sharing job location and expected duration with a second person before attending out-of-hours call-outs.
Electrical Hazards from Water-Damaged Areas
Control: Treat any electrical fittings or sockets near the leak as unsafe until isolated and inspected, particularly ceiling roses and downlights affected by water ingress.
Working at Height to Access Leak Sources
Control: Use appropriate access equipment rather than furniture when tracing leaks at ceiling level or in loft spaces.
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 lone working on out-of-hours emergency call-outs?
Yes. It includes a lone worker check-in control, which is particularly relevant for emergency leak call-outs attended alone and out of hours.
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.