How to write a method statement
Method statements are widely used in construction as a means of controlling specific health and safety risks that have been identified (perhaps following the preparation of a risk assessment), such as lifting operations, demolition or dismantling, working at height, installing equipment, the use of plant, and so on.
A method statement helps manage the work and ensures that the necessary precautions have been communicated to those involved. Method statements should be written by a competent person who is familiar with the process being described and may need to be agreed between the client, principal contractor and contractor.
The first stage involves examining the work activity or process in question in preparation for writing the statement about it. The potential hazards of the work should be identified, including anything that has the potential to cause ill health or harm to anyone involved.
There should then be an analysis of what has been done to mitigate against these risks and whether the mitigation measures are sufficient. The guide term ‘As Low As Reasonably Practicable’ (ALARP) should be followed, and if necessary, further safety measures adopted.
The method statement typically begins with a header which contains important information for site staff and clients. This can include:
- The title of the job.
- The site address.
- Company name, address, logo, contact details, etc.
- Start and end dates for the proposed work.
- Description of the work.
- Health and safety contacts.
- Issue date.
- Unique document number.
The method statement should then provide further details relating to the specific work activity. These tend to focus on the type of personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be used for site operatives, as well as any environmental or quality considerations that are of particular importance.
The next section of the method statement will typically provide details such as:
- First aid procedures.
- Staff training required.
- Work permits and other permissions required.
- Scaffolding and working platforms that may be required.
- Site access and egress.
- Materials that will be handled and how they will be stored.
- Construction plant to be used and shut-down procedures.
- Emergency procedures.
- How existing structures will be safeguarded.
The final section of a method statement should set out step-by-step instructions as to how the work activity should be safely carried out and completed.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A sun, tide, mass or scratch dial.
A brief description of time in the sun.
ICE Trustee Board update June 2022
Given by ICE President Ed McCann.
Artificial intelligence and project management
Two new research reports published by APM.
Association for Project Management membership offer
50% off APM Associate membership for Designing Buildings users.
Building safety, a shifting landscape for professionals
A commentary from the insurance perspective.
In brief with further links.
Walter Segal: self-built architect
A definitive book on a pioneer of green architecture.
Funding for heritage on the high street
Using heritage as a catalyst for reviving historic centres.
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting update.
Declaration prioritising sustainable urbanisation adopted.
A small hidden, often distant but key building component.
Some brief words about the actuator.
CIAT Chief Executive steps down.
After 34 years at the Institute.
Volunteer opportunity launched by the ICE
To support the next generation of engineers.
Provisional findings show illegal cartels in the industry.
CIAT reporting from the Competition and Markets Authority.
Making sustainable construction number one priority.
The future of construction report.
Interview with ECA CEO.
Many provisions came into force on June 28, 2022.
With room to expand.
An information packed session at the BSRIA conference.
Refurbishment, Energy Efficiency, Indoor air and process.
Create a profile, write informed product articles and share.
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) is one example.
We are indeed now 10 years old, so go on and be bold !
Write about something you know, help us build and grow !