In the construction industry, where hazards are part of everyday operations, ensuring the health and safety of workers and the public is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative.
Among the most vital tools in the health and safety toolkit is the Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS). Despite being a common requirement, RAMS are often misunderstood or underutilized. This blog post breaks down what RAMS are, why they matter, and how to create and use them effectively.
What is a RAMS Document?
RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement. It is a comprehensive document that outlines:
- The Risks associated with a particular construction task or project.
- The Control Measures in place to mitigate those risks.
- The Safe Method of Work (i.e., step-by-step instructions on how to carry out a task safely).
Put simply, RAMS documents identify hazards, evaluate risks, and describe how those risks will be managed while performing specific work activities.
The Two Core Components of RAMS
1. Risk Assessment
This is the process of:
- Identifying potential hazards (e.g., working at height, using heavy machinery, exposure to chemicals).
- Determining who might be harmed and how.
- Evaluating the level of risk (low, medium, high).
- Implementing control measures to reduce risk to an acceptable level.
Key Elements in a Risk Assessment:
- Description of the task.
- Identification of hazards.
- Assessment of risk severity and likelihood.
- Identification of affected persons (workers, visitors, the public).
- Control measures to eliminate or minimize risk.
2. Method Statement
This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to perform the task safely, including:
- The sequence of operations.
- Equipment and materials to be used.
- Responsibilities of individuals.
- Emergency procedures.
- Permits required.
It ensures that everyone involved knows exactly what is expected and how to stay safe during the task.
Why RAMS are Crucial in Construction
Construction sites are dynamic, high-risk environments. RAMS are essential because they:
- Promote Safety Awareness: They help all personnel understand the risks involved in their tasks.
- Ensure Legal Compliance: Under regulations like the UK’s Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM), employers must take reasonable steps to ensure safety.
- Prevent Accidents: Well-prepared RAMS help reduce incidents, injuries, and fatalities.
- Improve Planning and Efficiency: RAMS promote better coordination among teams, reducing the likelihood of delays or unsafe improvisation.
- Aid in Training and Induction: New workers can be quickly briefed on specific tasks using RAMS documents.
When Are RAMS Required?
RAMS should be prepared anytime a task involves significant hazards, especially in the following cases:
- Working at height.
- Confined space entry.
- Lifting operations.
- Use of hazardous substances.
- Demolition work.
- Hot works (e.g., welding).
- High-voltage electrical work.
Even routine activities may require RAMS if they pose sufficient risk.
Who Should Write RAMS?
Typically, RAMS are created by:
- Health and safety managers.
- Site managers or supervisors.
- Project managers.
- Subcontractors (for task-specific RAMS).
The person preparing the RAMS must have a clear understanding of the work and its risks. Collaboration with workers and specialists is also recommended to ensure accuracy and practicality.
How to Write Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS)
- Be Task-Specific: Avoid generic templates that don’t reflect the actual risks of the task.
- Use Clear, Simple Language: Avoid jargon and technical terms unless necessary.
- Consult the Workforce: Involve those doing the work – they often know the risks best.
- Keep it Updated: Revise RAMS when conditions, tools, or team members change.
- Ensure Accessibility: RAMS should be readily available and communicated to all relevant personnel.
- Include Visuals if Helpful: Diagrams or photos can clarify complex processes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using outdated or irrelevant RAMS templates.
- Ignoring input from the workforce.
- Overcomplicating the method statement.
- Failing to review and update RAMS over time.
- Not communicating RAMS to the team.
RAMS vs. Risk Assessment: What’s the Difference?
While a risk assessment identifies and evaluates risks, a method statement outlines how the work will be done safely. RAMS bring these two elements together into a single, usable document. Think of RAMS as the practical application of a risk assessment
Conclusion
RAMS are not just paperwork to satisfy compliance officers, they are practical tools that, when properly prepared and implemented, can save lives and ensure project success. In a high-risk industry like construction, taking the time to develop clear, detailed, and site-specific RAMS is an investment in the safety, efficiency, and professionalism of your operation.
Whether you’re a contractor, site manager, or subcontractor, understanding and using RAMS effectively is key to creating a culture of safety on-site. Make it standard practice, not just a tick-box exercise.
Why Choose PIP Services for Your Construction Training?
We offer a wide range of construction NVQs, and by completing one you can apply for specific CSCS cards to prove to employers you have the relevant skills and certification to carry out more specialised construction roles. A natural step is to complete a relevant course to obtain your CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card and increase your earning potential as a skilled worker.
Our NVQ Level 2 construction qualifications include;
- Tiling.
- Bricklaying.
- Carpentry.
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There are also higher levels of construction NVQs designed for supervisor and senior management roles. The courses we offer include.
- Level 3 NVQ Construction Contracting Operations.
- Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision.
- Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations Management.
- Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management.
- Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management.
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