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 During Steel Erection
Control: Use a fall arrest system with horizontal lifelines or a MEWP for connecting steelwork at height, with only trained steel erectors permitted to work aloft.
Crane Lifting Operations & Dropped Loads
Control: Plan every lift in line with a lifting plan supervised by an appointed person, using tested and certified lifting gear and a clear exclusion zone beneath the load.
Structural Instability of the Partially Erected Frame
Control: Temporarily brace and guy each erected section in line with the erection sequence drawing before the next lift proceeds.
Working Near Live Overhead Power Lines
Control: Identify and maintain safe clearance from overhead power lines before positioning cranes or lifting steel sections nearby.
Adverse Weather During Lifting Operations
Control: Suspend crane lifting operations in high winds exceeding the crane or component's rated limits.
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 crane lifting plan for steel erection?
Yes. It includes a control requiring every lift to be planned and supervised by an appointed person in line with a documented lifting plan, using tested and certified lifting gear.
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.