Why Are Method Statements Important?
Method Statements are important because they provide the information your team needs to mitigate risks associated with a specific job or project, therefore helping protect workers and site visitors etc. from harm. Depending on the sector you’re working in, or the type of project, risks your method statement will cover, could include the risks associated with using mechanical equipment, working at heights, or using hazardous chemicals.
Method Statements are also an important, and often necessary resource a client would request prior to a project starting, as a way to assess how your company operates and the measures it’s taking to ensure safe working practices.
What’s Included In A Basic Method Statement?
The information included in a method statement will vary from project to project, and from sector to sector, but in general, a method statement will and should include:
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A List Of Hazards
The most important information your method statement will contain will be a list of hazards associated with the particular project. To create this list, carry out a risk assessment of the potential hazards, including evaluating current protections, and listing additional measures that might be required.
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Job And Company Information
Your method statement must include all the relevant company and job information, which should include:
- The name of the project
- The location of the site or sites
- Your company name, address and logo etc.
- A description of the project
- Contact information relevant to the project
- A document number
- A list of safety responses to hazards
Although many hazards and the associated risks on a project can be eliminated, some potential hazards are unavoidable, therefore your method statement will require a list of responses in place to mitigate these potential risks.
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Additional Details
Every project is different, therefore there will be additional and unique details that need to be added to your method statement. These could include things such as:
- A list of training and safety equipment required
- A reminder of specific work permits required
- Clearly defined first aid protocols
- A list of site access points
- Material handling instructions
- The location of on-site bathrooms and methods of waste disposal
And Don’t Forget To Review
Projects tend to change at certain points for various reasons, so be sure to review your method statement regularly, ensuring you update it with the relevant changes by adding or retracting information where necessary.
