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.
Excavation Collapse During Pool Shell Formation
Control: Batter or shore the excavation sides in line with a competent person's assessment, keeping plant and stored spoil back from the edge.
Confined Space Entry to the Plant Room/Pit
Control: Assess ventilation before entry to below-ground plant rooms or pits, never working alone without a means of raising the alarm.
Electric Shock from Pool Pump & Lighting Circuits
Control: Install pool electrics to BS 7671's special locations requirements (Section 702), with RCD protection throughout and isolation before any circuit work.
Manual Handling of Pool Shell Components & Plant
Control: Use mechanical lifting aids for heavy pool shell panels, filtration plant and pumps, team-lifting where mechanical aids aren't practical.
Groundwater & Structural Buoyancy Risk
Control: Assess groundwater levels before excavation and manage dewatering during the build to prevent shell flotation before backfilling.
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 special electrical requirements for pool installations?
Yes. It includes a control requiring pool electrics to be installed to BS 7671's special locations requirements (Section 702), which set stricter rules for wiring near water.
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.