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
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.