What is the difference between RAMS, a risk assessment and a method statement?
Updated · UK law and HSE guidance
Short answer
A risk assessment identifies hazards, evaluates risk and selects controls. A method statement explains the safe sequence for completing a task using those controls. RAMS is the common name for presenting both together. UK law requires suitable and sufficient risk assessment; a method statement is generally a practical communication tool, not a universal statutory form.
| Risk assessment | Identifies and controls risk |
|---|---|
| Method statement | Explains the safe work sequence |
| RAMS | Combines both documents |
| Legal foundation | Management Regulations 1999, regulation 3 |
| Record threshold | 5+ employees for significant findings |
Risk assessment: what could cause harm?
A risk assessment starts with hazards and people, not with a predetermined work sequence. It considers how employees, contractors, visitors and the public could be harmed, the likelihood and severity of harm, existing controls and what more is reasonably practicable. It should name action owners and be reviewed when it may no longer be valid or a significant change occurs.
- Hazard: a source or situation with potential to cause harm
- Risk: the likelihood and possible severity of that harm
- Control: a measure that eliminates or reduces the risk
Method statement: how will the job be done?
A method statement converts selected controls into instructions in a logical order. It should cover preparation, access, isolation, equipment, materials, work stages, supervision and emergencies. HSE says method statements can help communicate safe working, especially for higher-risk, complex or unusual construction work. They should be clear enough for the people doing the task and no longer than necessary.
- State who is responsible for each critical stage
- Identify hold points and conditions that require work to stop
- Match the method to the actual site and available resources
RAMS: one coordinated package
Combining the two helps reviewers trace each hazard to a control and then to a practical work step. It does not change the legal status of either component. A client may require RAMS contractually, and site management may approve it before access, but the contractor remains responsible for making the assessment suitable and implementing it. SitePaper can generate the linked documents for competent review.
- Use consistent control wording across both parts
- Brief changes rather than silently replacing a version
- Check work in progress against the approved method
Sources
This guide summarises UK law and HSE guidance for small businesses. It is not legal advice; check the sources and your own circumstances.