Risk Assessment & Method Statement (RAMS)

Company: Thirsk Handyman
Prepared by: Steve Simpson
Review Date: Annually

 

 

1. Scope of Works

This Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) applies to handyman, property maintenance and exterior cleaning services carried out by Thirsk Handyman at domestic and commercial properties throughout North Yorkshire.

Typical services include:

  • General handyman repairs
  • Furniture assembly
  • Shelving, curtain poles, mirrors and TV mounting
  • Painting and decorating
  • Fence painting and repairs
  • Pressure washing
  • Gutter clearing and cleaning
  • Window cleaning
  • Garden maintenance
  • Minor plumbing repairs
  • Property maintenance

Each job will be assessed individually before work begins.

 

 

2. Personnel

All work is carried out by Steven Simpson, trading as Thirsk Handyman.

Where additional contractors are required for larger projects, they will be suitably competent, adequately insured and expected to follow the requirements of this RAMS.

 

 

3. Work Locations

Work is undertaken at:

  • Domestic properties
  • Rental properties
  • Holiday accommodation
  • Commercial premises
  • External gardens and driveways

 

 

4. Hazards Identified

Potential hazards include:

  • Working at height using ladders
  • Manual handling
  • Slips, trips and falls
  • Use of electrical and battery-powered tools
  • Dust and airborne particles
  • Flying debris during pressure washing
  • Contact with cleaning chemicals
  • Noise and vibration
  • Adverse weather conditions
  • Risks to customers, visitors and members of the public

 

 

5. Control Measures

Working at Height

  • Ladders inspected before each use.
  • Ladders positioned on stable, level ground.
  • Three points of contact maintained wherever possible.
  • No overreaching.
  • Outdoor work postponed during unsafe weather conditions.

Manual Handling

  • Assess load before lifting.
  • Use correct lifting techniques.
  • Obtain assistance where necessary.
  • Avoid unnecessary lifting of excessively heavy items.

Electrical Safety

  • Battery-operated tools preferred where practical.
  • Electrical equipment visually inspected before use.
  • Defective equipment removed from service immediately.
  • Electrical circuits isolated before carrying out minor electrical work.

No electrical installation work or rewiring is undertaken.

Tools and Equipment

  • Equipment maintained in good working order.
  • Manufacturer's instructions followed.
  • Correct tool selected for each task.
  • Damaged tools not used.

Pressure Washing

  • Area checked before work begins.
  • Loose objects removed.
  • Public access restricted where necessary.
  • Care taken to avoid damage to property or surrounding surfaces.
  • Appropriate pressure selected for each surface.

Chemicals

  • Cleaning products used in accordance with manufacturer guidance.
  • Appropriate PPE worn.
  • Chemicals stored safely during transport.

Housekeeping

  • Work areas kept tidy throughout.
  • Trip hazards minimised.
  • Cables managed safely.
  • Waste removed promptly.

 

 

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The following PPE will be worn where appropriate:

  • Safety footwear
  • Protective gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Hearing protection
  • Dust mask or respirator
  • High-visibility clothing where required
  • Waterproof clothing for external work

 

 

7. Method Statement

Before Work Begins

  • Confirm work requirements with the customer.
  • Carry out a dynamic risk assessment.
  • Identify hazards and agree access arrangements.
  • Protect floors, furniture and surrounding areas where necessary.
  • Prepare equipment safely.

During the Work

  • Use appropriate tools and PPE.
  • Maintain a clean and organised work area.
  • Monitor changing conditions throughout the task.
  • Stop work immediately if an unacceptable risk develops.
  • Keep the customer informed of any changes to the agreed work.

On Completion

  • Inspect completed work.
  • Remove all waste unless otherwise agreed.
  • Leave the property clean and tidy.
  • Ensure the work area is safe before leaving.

 

 

8. Emergency Procedures

  • A stocked first aid kit is carried in the work vehicle.
  • Emergency services will be contacted where required.
  • All incidents will be recorded.
  • Electrical equipment will be isolated in the event of an electrical emergency.
  • In the event of fire, work will cease immediately and the premises evacuated.

 

 

9. Waste Management

Waste will normally be removed from site unless alternative arrangements have been agreed.

Where possible:

  • Timber will be recycled.
  • Cardboard and packaging will be recycled.
  • General waste will be disposed of responsibly through licensed facilities.

 

 

10. Insurance

Thirsk Handyman maintains appropriate Public Liability Insurance for the services provided.

Insurance documentation can be supplied upon request.

 

 

11. Review

This RAMS will be reviewed annually, following any significant change in legislation, working practices, equipment or after any reportable incident.