What is a Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS) and how does it differ from a risk assessment?

Managing risk is at the core of health and safety practices in every business, particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, and engineering, where the potential for accidents is higher. Risk management not only protects employees but also ensures legal compliance and maintains operational efficiency. Two key documents that play a pivotal role in risk management are the risk assessment and the Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS). While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes and are essential at different stages of a project.

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is a structured process used to identify potential hazards in the workplace, evaluate the risks associated with those hazards, and implement control measures to reduce the likelihood of harm. It forms the foundation of any health and safety strategy, ensuring that businesses comply with legal requirements and safeguard their workforce.

The risk assessment process typically involves:

1. Identifying hazards – Spotting anything that may cause harm.
2. Assessing risks – Evaluating the severity and likelihood of harm occurring.
3. Implementing controls – Putting measures in place to eliminate or reduce risks.
4. Reviewing and updating – Ensuring the risk assessment remains relevant and effective.

For example, a construction site risk assessment might identify hazards such as working at height, exposure to harmful substances, or operating heavy machinery. The assessment would then outline the steps to mitigate these risks, such as using safety harnesses, providing PPE, and offering training to staff.

Risk assessments are a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and must be conducted regularly to ensure ongoing compliance.

What is a Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS)?

A Risk Assessment Method Statement (RAMS) is a more detailed document that outlines how a specific task will be carried out safely. It builds on the risk assessment by providing step-by-step instructions for completing a job while mitigating risks. RAMS documents are particularly important for high-risk activities and projects.

A RAMS document includes:

• Details of the task or project
• Identified hazards and associated risks
• Step-by-step instructions on how to perform the task safely
• Control measures to reduce risk
• Roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in the task
• Emergency procedures

For example, if a construction team is tasked with installing scaffolding, the RAMS document will provide a clear method statement on how to safely erect and dismantle the scaffolding, including the use of appropriate PPE, fall protection systems, and training requirements.

RAMS documents are often shared with employees and contractors before work begins to ensure everyone understands the risks and the safe working practices required.

A RAMS goes beyond a general risk assessment by

• Providing detailed work procedures: Outlining the specific steps involved in a particular task or project.
• Identifying specific hazards associated with each step: This level of detail allows for a more precise understanding of the risks involved.
• Specifying control measures for each hazard: This ensures that appropriate safety precautions are taken at every stage of the work process.
• Communicating the plan: Clearly communicating the risks and control measures to all workers involved in the task.

Key differences between a risk assessment and a RAMS

While both documents are essential for health and safety compliance, there are distinct differences between a risk assessment and a RAMS:

Why are RAMS important?

RAMS documents are crucial for ensuring high-risk activities are conducted safely. They help businesses:

• Protect their workforce by providing clear safety instructions
• Demonstrate compliance with health and safety regulations
• Improve communication between management, employees, and contractors
• Reduce accidents and incidents on-site

Without a detailed RAMS document, businesses risk non-compliance, increased accidents, and potential legal action in the event of an incident.

How SafeWorkforce RAMS software can help?

Creating and managing RAMS documents manually can be time-consuming, especially for businesses with multiple projects or a large workforce. SafeWorkforce RAMS Software offers an efficient solution for managing risk assessments and method statements, streamlining the process with user-friendly features to ensure compliance and organisation.

Key features of SafeWorkforce RAMS software

• Automated template creation: Quickly generate RAMS documents using pre-built templates.
• Task-specific customisation: Tailor RAMS documents for specific projects and tasks.
• Cloud-based access: Access and update RAMS documents from anywhere.
• Real-time collaboration: Share documents instantly with employees, contractors, and clients.
• Compliance tracking: Ensure all documents meet legal and regulatory requirements.

By using SafeWorkforce RAMS Software, businesses save time on document creation, ensure consistency across all RAMS documents, and reduce administrative burdens. This leads to improved communication and enhanced safety compliance, making it easier to maintain high standards and stay organised.

The benefits of digital RAMS management

Switching to digital RAMS management offers significant advantages over traditional paper-based processes:

1. Efficiency – Automate time-consuming tasks and reduce manual errors.
2. Compliance – Ensure all documents are up-to-date and meet regulatory standards.
3. Accessibility – Access RAMS documents anytime, anywhere, and from any device.
4. Accountability – Track who has viewed, signed, and acknowledged each RAMS document.

With SafeWorkforce, businesses can simplify their risk management processes, improve compliance, and reduce the risk of accidents on-site.

Final thoughts

Both risk assessments and Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS) are essential components of an effective health and safety strategy. While a risk assessment identifies hazards and evaluates risks, a RAMS document provides detailed instructions on how to complete a task safely.

Using a solution like SafeWorkforce RAMS software can streamline the process, ensuring that businesses remain compliant, protect their workforce, and maintain operational efficiency.

By digitising RAMS management, businesses can reduce paperwork, improve collaboration, and create safer working environments for everyone involved.