Risk Assessment And Method Statement Template for England and Wales

A Risk Assessment And Method Statement (RAMS) is a comprehensive safety document that combines hazard identification with detailed work procedures. You'll need this document to comply with England and Wales health and safety legislation and demonstrate your commitment to worker protection. The document serves dual purposes: systematically evaluating workplace risks while providing step-by-step instructions for safe task execution.

When do you need this document?

You must prepare a RAMS document before commencing any work activity that poses potential risks to workers or the public. Construction projects specifically require this documentation under CDM Regulations 2015, regardless of project size or duration. Manufacturing operations, maintenance activities, and any work involving hazardous substances also necessitate comprehensive risk assessment and method statements. Additionally, many clients and insurance providers now mandate RAMS documentation before authorising work commencement, making it essential for contract compliance and business operations.

Key legal considerations

Your RAMS document must demonstrate "suitable and sufficient" risk assessment as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. This means identifying all reasonably foreseeable hazards, evaluating risk severity and likelihood, and implementing appropriate control measures following the hierarchy of controls. The document should clearly assign responsibilities to competent personnel, including principal contractors, site managers, and health and safety officers. Method statements must provide sufficient detail for workers to understand safe working procedures, emergency arrangements, and personal protective equipment requirements. Regular reviews and updates are essential, particularly when work conditions change or incidents occur.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, you have absolute legal duties to ensure workplace safety "so far as is reasonably practicable." The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 specifically require written risk assessments for employers with five or more employees. Construction activities fall under CDM Regulations 2015, which mandate detailed planning, coordination, and documentation throughout project lifecycles. COSHH Regulations 2002 impose additional requirements when your work involves hazardous substances, requiring specific control measures and health surveillance procedures. Failure to maintain adequate RAMS documentation can result in prosecution, unlimited fines, and potential imprisonment for senior management. The Health and Safety Executive actively enforces these requirements through inspections and investigations following workplace incidents.