Risk assessments and method statements submitted by subcontractors must be reviewed and accepted before work begins. Generic RAMS copied from a library without site-specific content provide no real protection. The review process ensures that every subcontractor has properly assessed the risks of their specific tasks on this specific site. This talk explains the RAMS review process and why it matters.
Key Hazards
Workers exposed to uncontrolled risks from generic or inadequate RAMS
Subcontractors starting work before their RAMS have been reviewed and accepted
Interface hazards missed because RAMS were not cross-referenced with other trades
Legal liability when RAMS do not reflect the actual work being carried out
Control Measures
Require all subcontractors to submit task-specific RAMS before mobilising to site.
Review RAMS against the site-specific hazards, layout, and existing risk assessments.
Reject generic RAMS that do not reference this site, this project, or the specific task.
Check that RAMS identify interface risks with other trades working in the same area.
Confirm that the control measures in the RAMS are achievable with the resources available on site.
Issue formal acceptance or rejection in writing before the subcontractor starts any work.
Require RAMS to be updated whenever the task, location, or site conditions change.
Brief the subcontractor workforce on their own RAMS content before they start each task.
Retain copies of all accepted RAMS on site for the duration of the subcontractor's works.
Remember
Subcontractor RAMS must be site-specific and task-specific, not generic library copies
No subcontractor may start work until their RAMS have been formally reviewed and accepted
Check that RAMS address interface risks with other trades working in the same area
Require updates whenever the task, location, or site conditions change during the works
Brief the subcontractor workforce on their RAMS content before they start each task
Applicable Legislation: CDM 2015 · MHSWR 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974