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.
Falls from Height at Chimney/Ridge Level
Control: Use scaffold or a chimney-specific access platform with guardrails for all work at ridge and chimney height. Never work directly off a roof ladder alone for repointing tasks.
Falling Debris from Loose Brickwork or Pots
Control: Establish a ground-level exclusion zone before removing loose brickwork or chimney pots, and lower debris via a chute or bucket rather than dropping it.
Cement & Mortar Dust/Skin Contact
Control: Wear waterproof gloves when handling wet mortar and an FFP3 mask when cutting or removing old pointing dry.
Chimney Stack Structural Stability
Control: Assess the stack for structural movement or instability before working on or near it, and stop work if unexpected movement is observed.
Adverse Weather at Ridge Height
Control: Monitor wind speed throughout the day and stop ridge-level work if conditions make the work area unsafe.
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 risk of falling debris from chimney repair work?
Yes. It includes a ground-level exclusion zone control and a requirement to lower debris via chute or bucket rather than dropping it, before any loose brickwork or pots are removed.
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.