What are RAMS?
If you work in construction, engineering, demolition, manufacturing or any high-risk industry, you’ve almost certainly been asked to provide RAMS before starting work.
But what exactly are RAMS, why are they important and when do you need them?
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS), including what they contain, who is responsible for preparing them and how they help businesses comply with UK health and safety legislation.
What Does RAMS Stand For?
RAMS stands for:
- Risk Assessment
- Method Statement
Although they are two separate documents, they are often combined into one document and referred to simply as RAMS. Together, they demonstrate that a business has carefully considered the hazards associated with a task and planned a safe system of work before work begins.
What Is a Risk Assessment?
A risk assessment identifies:
- Hazards
- Who could be harmed
- The level of risk
- Existing control measures
- Additional actions required to reduce the risk
The purpose of a risk assessment is to eliminate hazards wherever possible and reduce remaining risks to an acceptable level.
For example, a demolition contractor may identify hazards such as:
- Falling materials
- Dust generation
- Moving plant
- Noise
- Manual handling
- Underground services
Each hazard should be assessed and suitable control measures identified before work starts.
What Is a Method Statement?
While a risk assessment identifies the hazards, a method statement explains how the work will actually be carried out safely.
A good method statement includes:
- Scope of works
- Sequence of operations
- Plant and equipment required
- Competence requirements
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Emergency arrangements
- Environmental controls
- Quality requirements where applicable
Think of it as a step-by-step guide for carrying out the work safely.
Why Are RAMS Important?
RAMS help businesses to:
- Protect employees and contractors
- Meet legal duties under UK health and safety legislation
- Demonstrate competence to clients
- Reduce accidents and incidents
- Improve communication on site
Many principal contractors will not allow work to begin until suitable RAMS have been reviewed and accepted.
Are RAMS a Legal Requirement?
UK legislation requires employers to assess the risks associated with their work and implement suitable control measures.
For many construction and higher-risk activities, preparing documented RAMS is considered best practice and is often required by clients, principal contractors and insurers.
While the law doesn’t specifically require a document called “RAMS”, employers must demonstrate that risks have been assessed and that safe systems of work are in place.
When Are RAMS Required?
RAMS are commonly required for activities including:
- Demolition works
- Site clearance
- Excavation works
- Working at height
- Confined spaces
- Electrical works
- Roofing
- Lifting operations
- High-risk maintenance activities
These are just a few examples of were RAMS may be required.
What Should Good RAMS Include?
Professionally prepared RAMS should normally include:
Project Information
- Client details
- Site address
- Description of works
- Revision history
Risk Assessment
- Identified hazards
- Persons at risk
- Existing controls
- Residual risk ratings
- Further actions
Method Statement
- Scope of work
- Sequence of operations
- Required equipment
- Competency requirements
- Welfare arrangements
- Environmental controls
- Emergency procedures
Supporting Information
- COSHH assessments
- Plant inspection records
- Training certificates
- Insurance details
- Relevant permits
Common Mistakes Businesses Make
Poor-quality RAMS are one of the most common issues identified during site inspections.
Some frequent mistakes include:
- Copying generic RAMS from the internet
- Failing to assess site-specific hazards
- Missing emergency arrangements
- No consideration of environmental impacts
- Incorrect PPE requirements
- Using outdated legislation
- Employees not being briefed on the RAMS before work begins
Remember, RAMS should always reflect the actual work being undertaken, not simply be a generic template.
Who Should Prepare RAMS?
RAMS should be prepared by someone who:
- Understands the work being carried out
- Is familiar with relevant legislation and industry guidance
- Has experience in risk assessments
- Can identify practical control measures
Many businesses choose to work with a competent health and safety consultant to ensure their documentation is accurate, compliant and suitable for client approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Risk Assessment and a Method Statement?
A risk assessment identifies hazards and evaluates the risks, while a method statement explains how the work will be completed safely.
Do I need RAMS for every job?
Not necessarily. The level of documentation should reflect the complexity and risk of the work. However, many clients require RAMS before allowing contractors on site.
Can I use the same RAMS for every project?
No.
RAMS should always be reviewed and amended to reflect the specific site, task and hazards involved.
How often should RAMS be reviewed?
RAMS should be reviewed whenever:
- The work changes
- The location changes
- New hazards are identified
- Following an incident
- At regular planned intervals
How Hamilton HSEQ Can Help
At Hamilton HSEQ, we prepare professional, practical and site-specific RAMS that meet the requirements of principal contractors and clients across a wide range of industries.
Whether you’re carrying out demolition, construction, engineering, maintenance or specialist contracting work, we can help you produce documentation that is clear, compliant and easy for your team to follow.
If you need assistance preparing RAMS for your next project, get in touch today to discuss your requirements.