Method statements are important documents that outline the way a process or task will be carried out. This statement (also referred to as a "safe system of work") will detail potential hazards and the steps that will be taken to complete the job safely. It will also include the control measures taken to ensure the lowest risk of hazard to those partaking in the process or work task. These statements are requested by companies that are considering hiring another company to complete a task and need to be sure that proper safety measures are being followed. It takes some practice to feel confident when you have to write a method statement, but, by following a few steps, you will quickly become more comfortable.
1Prepare to write by conducting a risk assessment--an in-depth examination of the task or process.
- Identify the work hazards (those that could potentially cause poor health or personal harm) that are inherent in the task.
- Analyze what has been done about these hazards and if these measures are enough to reduce the harm potential to an acceptable level.
- Decide what additional measures need to be taken to reduce harm if an acceptable level has not been met.
2Begin to write your method statement, starting at the header. This first section includes information pertinent to staff and clients, such as:
- A standard operating procedure or title.
- A site address.
- Your company name, address, logo and identifying details.
- Projected start and end dates for task.
- A description of the work to be conducted.
- The method statement's author and health and safety contacts.
- Other document-specific information such as the revision date and number, issue date and document number.
3Write the second section of the method statement, which outlines the projected hazards and the safety measures taken to address these hazards.
- Detail the type of personal protective equipment to be worn by workers.
- Describe any environmental or quality considerations and subsequent procedures.
4Write the third section of the method statement, which provides more detail related to the task and other relevant information, including:
- First aid procedures.
- The work staff and any training and personal protective equipment required.
- Work permits.
- Lock-off and machinery shutdown procedures.
- Egress and site access.
- The process for properly handling materials.
- Any scaffolding that will be used.
5Write the final section, which details the appropriately-ordered and step-by-step instructions that must be followed to most safely accomplish the task or work process.Ad
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- Risk assessments are conducted to protect the health and safety of workers on the task or process first, and secondarily to meet legislative code.
- Be sure to address the safety measures required to comply with legislative safety laws as well as measures to fulfill company policies.