Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement Template for New Zealand
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What is a Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement?
The Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement (RAMS) is a vital document required under New Zealand's Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and associated regulations. It is used whenever cleaning operations pose potential risks to workers, building occupants, or the environment. The document serves dual purposes: first as a risk assessment tool to identify and evaluate potential hazards, and second as a detailed method statement outlining safe working procedures. It must be prepared before commencing cleaning operations and should be regularly reviewed and updated. The RAMS is particularly crucial in high-risk environments such as healthcare facilities, industrial sites, or when using hazardous cleaning substances. It demonstrates compliance with New Zealand's workplace safety requirements while providing practical guidance for cleaning operations.
About the Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement
A Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement (RAMS) is a comprehensive safety document that combines hazard identification with detailed operational procedures for cleaning activities. Under New Zealand's Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, you have a legal duty to ensure the safety of workers and others who may be affected by your cleaning operations. This document serves as both a risk management tool and a practical guide for safe cleaning practices.
When do you need this document?
You must prepare a Cleaning RAMS whenever your cleaning operations involve potential safety risks. This includes situations where you're using hazardous cleaning chemicals, working at heights, cleaning in occupied buildings, or operating in specialized environments like hospitals, laboratories, or food preparation areas. The document is also required when cleaning contractors are engaged by building owners, facility managers, or principal contractors who need to demonstrate compliance with their health and safety obligations. WorkSafe New Zealand may request to review your RAMS during inspections, making it essential for regulatory compliance.
Key legal considerations
Your RAMS must demonstrate a systematic approach to risk management that complies with the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016. Key elements include comprehensive hazard identification covering chemical exposure, slip and fall risks, manual handling injuries, and environmental contamination. You must detail specific control measures for each identified risk, including personal protective equipment requirements, safe handling procedures for cleaning chemicals, and emergency response protocols. When using hazardous substances, your document must align with the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and include proper chemical storage, handling, and disposal procedures. The RAMS should also address consultation requirements with workers and other duty holders, as mandated by New Zealand safety legislation.
Legal requirements in New Zealand
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, your Cleaning RAMS must be prepared by a competent person and regularly reviewed to ensure ongoing effectiveness. The document must comply with the Hazardous Substances Regulations 2017 when cleaning chemicals are involved, including proper labeling, storage, and safety data sheet requirements. You're required to consult with workers and their representatives during the RAMS development process, and ensure all cleaning staff receive appropriate training on the documented procedures. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Guidelines must be considered for environmental protection aspects, particularly regarding chemical discharge and waste disposal. Your RAMS must be readily available at the workplace and regularly updated to reflect changes in cleaning procedures, products, or site conditions. Failure to maintain adequate risk assessments can result in significant penalties under New Zealand's workplace safety framework.
GOVERNING LAW
Applicable law
This Cleaning Risk Assessment And Method Statement is drafted to comply with New Zealand law. Key legislation includes:
Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016: Specific regulations about risk management, including requirements for identifying hazards and implementing control measures
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996: Governs the management of hazardous substances, including cleaning chemicals and materials
Hazardous Substances Regulations 2017: Detailed regulations for handling, storing, and using hazardous substances, including cleaning chemicals
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Guidelines: Guidelines for environmental protection related to cleaning activities and disposal of cleaning materials
Resource Management Act 1991: Environmental legislation affecting waste disposal and environmental impact of cleaning activities
Employment Relations Act 2000: Relevant for understanding worker rights and responsibilities in cleaning operations
Building Act 2004: Relevant for cleaning operations in buildings, including access and safety requirements
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