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.
Pressure Testing Pipework
Control: Pressure test all pipework to the manufacturer's specification before screeding, and isolate the system clearly while under test to prevent inadvertent use.
Manual Handling of Screed & Insulation Boards
Control: Use a trolley for bagged screed and mechanical mixing where possible. Team-lift insulation boards to avoid awkward twisting.
Cutting & Chasing Floor Insulation/Screed
Control: Use dust extraction on cutting tools and wear an FFP2 mask when cutting insulation boards or chasing screed.
Manifold & Zone Valve Commissioning
Control: Balance and commission each heating zone at the manifold before handover, labelling zones clearly for the end user.
Working on Suspended Timber Floors
Control: Check joist positions and floor loading before cutting into a suspended timber floor to route pipework, avoiding notching load-bearing joists excessively.
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 pressure testing the underfloor heating pipework?
Yes. It includes a control requiring pipework to be pressure tested to the manufacturer's specification, and clearly isolated during the test, before screed is laid over it.
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.