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 Roof During Panel Fitting
Control: Use edge protection, roof anchor points and a fall arrest system in line with the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Never work on wet or icy roofs.
DC Electrical Shock from Live Panels
Control: Cover panels or work before sunrise/after sunset where possible to reduce live DC output. Isolate and lock off the inverter before connecting cabling.
Manual Handling of Panels & Mounting Rails
Control: Use a roof hoist or two-person lift for panels. Avoid carrying panels up ladders in high wind.
Working Near Overhead Power Lines
Control: Identify and maintain safe clearance from any overhead electrical service cables before positioning ladders, scaffolding or lifting equipment near the roof.
Fixing Roof Anchors & Penetrations
Control: Identify rafter positions before drilling roof anchor points, and seal all roof penetrations correctly to prevent water ingress.
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 DC isolation risks specific to solar panels?
Yes. Solar panels generate live DC voltage whenever exposed to light, even when the system is switched off downstream, and the RAMS includes controls specifically for that risk.
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.