RAMS template for plumbers
Plumbing RAMS should follow the job from survey and isolation through cutting, fitting, testing and reinstatement. Stored pressure, hot water, contaminated systems, soldering fire risk, sharp tools, drilling into hidden services, heavy cylinders and work in awkward spaces need specific controls. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 provides the overall duty, while COSHH, PUWER and fire controls apply to products and tools. Verify and label the correct isolation, drain safely and protect occupants from unexpected loss of service. Use a hot-work permit and heat-resistant protection where soldering is permitted, with a fire watch after completion. Pressure-test to the specified method before concealing work, monitor for leaks and record any system treatment or hygiene precautions.
- ✓Typical plumber tasks: Use of ladders and stepladders, Manual handling of materials, Use of portable power tools, Drilling into walls, floors or ceilings
- ✓Sequence of works, plant, permits and PPE
- ✓Editable Word and print-ready PDF
In short
A RAMS (risk assessment and method statement) is a combined document that identifies the hazards of a specific job, the controls that reduce the risk, and the step-by-step safe method of work. UK law requires a suitable and sufficient risk assessment; main contractors usually require a RAMS before you start on site.
What it must include
- ✓Scope of works, site address, dates and who is involved
- ✓Hazards, who could be harmed and how
- ✓Control measures and the risk rating before and after
- ✓Sequence of works from preparation to completion
- ✓Plant, tools, permits and PPE
- ✓Competence, supervision and emergency arrangements
- ✓Briefing and sign-off by the people doing the work
You stay the duty holder: review the document for your site before work starts. SitePaper is a drafting tool, not a consultancy.