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.
Manual Handling of Bulky & Awkward Items
Control: Use trolleys, straps and a two-person team for large furniture and appliances, assessing weight and access route before moving each item.
Undisclosed Hazardous or Sharp Items in Clutter
Control: Visually assess loose waste before handling, wearing cut-resistant gloves at all times and segregating any hazardous items found for separate licensed disposal.
Trip & Fall Hazards in Cluttered Properties
Control: Clear a safe working path through the property before bulk removal begins, and use adequate lighting in cluttered or poorly lit rooms.
Biological & Hygiene Hazards in Neglected Properties
Control: Wear appropriate PPE and follow hygiene procedures when clearing properties with signs of pest infestation, mould or biological contamination.
Waste Segregation & Legal Disposal
Control: Segregate waste for reuse, recycling and disposal correctly, using a licensed waste carrier for any hazardous or bulky items.
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 hazardous items being found during a house clearance?
Yes. It includes a control requiring loose waste to be visually assessed before handling, with any hazardous items segregated for separate licensed disposal.
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.