What Is a RAMS? Risk Assessment & Method Statement Explained

RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement — two documents that together explain what a task's hazards are and exactly how the work will be done safely.

Risk assessment vs method statement

The risk assessment identifies hazards, who could be harmed, and the control measures to reduce the risk. The method statement is the step-by-step plan for carrying out the task safely, using those controls. One identifies the danger; the other sets out the safe sequence of work.

What a good RAMS includes

• Task description and location
• Hazards identified and risk ratings
• Control measures and required PPE
• Step-by-step method of work
• Plant, equipment, and materials involved
• Emergency procedures and responsible people

Why they matter

RAMS are often a contractual and legal requirement before work starts, especially for high-risk activities. More importantly, they force teams to think through a job before they start it — and give workers a clear, briefed plan rather than improvising on site.

Keep them live, not filed and forgotten

A RAMS only protects people if it's actually followed and reviewed when conditions change. Linking your RAMS to on-site checks — confirming controls are in place before work begins — closes the gap between the paperwork and the reality. SiteAudit lets you verify control measures on site and attach photo evidence to each task.