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 Ladders/Towers at Eaves Height
Control: Use a properly footed ladder or tower scaffold for eaves-height work. Ladders restricted to short-duration tasks with three points of contact maintained.
Falling Old Guttering & Debris
Control: Establish an exclusion zone at ground level below the work area before removing old fascia, soffit or guttering sections.
Power Tool Use (Saws, Drills) at Height
Control: Use a tool lanyard to prevent dropped tools, and ensure all cutting equipment is PAT-tested and guarded before use.
Manual Handling of Fascia & Soffit Boards at Height
Control: Use a lifting line or pass boards hand-to-hand up secured access equipment rather than carrying long boards up ladders single-handed.
Bird Nests & Pest Infestation in Guttering
Control: Check for nesting birds or wasp nests before removing old guttering, and follow the appropriate procedure if an active nest is found.
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 to people below?
Yes. It includes a ground-level exclusion zone control for removing old guttering, fascia and soffit sections before new material is fitted.
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.