Everything you need to understand RAMS

RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement — the two documents that show a job has been planned to be done safely. Here's what each one means, in plain English.

The honest answer: a risk assessment is required by law, a method statement generally isn't — but you'll almost always need both in practice. Here's exactly what UK law says.

Employers, the self-employed, contractors, subcontractors and principal contractors all rely on RAMS. Here's who needs them and who will ask for them before you get on site.

A risk assessment is one half of RAMS. Here's the difference between a standalone risk assessment and a full RAMS — and when you need each.

The two documents in RAMS do different jobs. A risk assessment identifies hazards and controls; a method statement sets out the safe sequence of work. Here's how they differ and work together.

How to write RAMS that pass review: work through HSE's risk-assessment steps, apply the hierarchy of control, then turn the controls into a clear method statement. A practical guide.

CDM 2015 never uses the word 'RAMS' — but it requires a construction phase plan and that contractors plan, manage and monitor their work. Here's exactly where RAMS fit.

A worked example of a construction RAMS, section by section, using a groundworks excavation. Shows what reviewers expect — with the caveat that HSE doesn't publish an official RAMS template.

The sections a complete RAMS document should contain — from project details and the risk assessment to the sequence of works, PPE, emergencies and sign-off. A practical checklist.