What is a RAMS template?
A RAMS template is a reusable structure for the two documents UK sites usually ask for together: a risk assessment, which sets out the hazards, who could be harmed and the controls in place, and a method statement, which explains how the job will actually be carried out, step by step.
The template gives you the headings. The content still has to describe your job. Learn more about what RAMS means and when it is required.
RAMS template
Work through the sections below when preparing a risk assessment and method statement template for a job. Adapt every section to the actual work, hazards, site and people involved — a RAMS copied straight from another job rarely holds up on site.
1. Project details
- Project / site name
- Site address
- Client / principal contractor
- Contractor
- Prepared by
- Date
- Review date
2. Scope of works
- Description of the work
- Location on site
- People involved
- Equipment and materials being used
3. Risk assessment
Record each significant hazard on its own row. A simple five-column structure works well for most trade jobs.
Example risk assessment rows — replacing roof tiles
The example below shows how this section might be completed. Controls must be selected for the actual job, site and conditions.
Fall from height while accessing the roof
- Who could be harmed
- Roofers, anyone below
- Initial risk
- High
- Control measures
- Tower scaffold with edge protection, inspected before use; no ladder work for the main task; work stopped in high winds.
- Residual risk
- Low
Falling tiles, tools or debris
- Who could be harmed
- Public, householder, operatives below
- Initial risk
- High
- Control measures
- Exclusion zone with barriers and signage below the work area; debris chute or hoist for waste; tools tethered.
- Residual risk
- Low
Manual handling of tiles and materials
- Who could be harmed
- Operatives
- Initial risk
- Medium
- Control measures
- Materials loaded out in small quantities; mechanical hoist used where possible; two-person lifts for heavy loads.
- Residual risk
- Low
Unsafe or unstable access equipment
- Who could be harmed
- Operatives
- Initial risk
- Medium
- Control measures
- Scaffold erected by a competent person, tagged and inspected; daily visual checks recorded before work starts.
- Residual risk
- Low
4. PPE requirements
- Head, eye and hand protection
- Hi-vis and footwear
- Respiratory protection where needed
- Personal fall protection where required by the risk assessment
5. Method statement
- Site preparation
- Access and setup
- Carry out works
- Waste and housekeeping
- Completion and handover
6. Emergency arrangements
- First aid provision and nearest facilities
- Emergency contacts
- Escape routes and assembly point
- Rescue plan for work at height or confined spaces
7. Competence and training
- Cards, tickets and certificates held
- Task-specific training
- Supervision arrangements
8. Sign-off and acknowledgement
- Prepared by and date
- Approved by
- Names and signatures of everyone briefed
- Date of briefing
Worked mini example
Scenario: replacing damaged roof tiles on a two-storey residential property. The risk assessment rows above are taken from this job — work at height, falling materials, manual handling and access equipment. The method statement would then describe erecting and checking the scaffold, setting up the exclusion zone, stripping and replacing the tiles, clearing waste and handing the area back to the householder.
Need a full roofing RAMS? See our roofing RAMS and risk assessment guide.
How to create RAMS
Define the work
Write down exactly what is being done, where and by whom.
Identify hazards
Walk the job through and list what could realistically cause harm.
Assess the risk
Judge how likely harm is and how serious it would be.
Add suitable controls
Decide what removes or reduces each risk in practice.
Describe the safe sequence
Set out the order of work, access, equipment and supervision.
Review it with the team
Brief everyone carrying out the work and record who was briefed.
Update when things change
Revisit the RAMS if the site, method, team or conditions change.
If you want more detail on either half of the document, see the risk assessment template and the method statement template.
RAMS template vs RAMS software
Static RAMS template
- Completed manually every time
- Usually copied and edited from a previous job
- You manage storage, versions and downloads
- Useful for understanding the structure required
Graftly
- Guided RAMS creation on phone, tablet or desktop
- Reuses your site and job details where supported
- Documents stored digitally in one place
- Built around trades and contractors, not head-office teams
Explore RAMS software for UK contractors for a fuller comparison.
Who can use this RAMS template?
The same structure works across most trades and small construction businesses. Roofers will usually need more detail on work at height — see the roofing RAMS guide for that.
Frequently asked questions
What does RAMS stand for?
RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement — two documents that are usually prepared and issued together for site work.
What should a RAMS template include?
Project and site details, scope of works, hazards and who could be harmed, control measures, PPE, the safe sequence of work, emergency arrangements, competence requirements and a sign-off section.
Is a RAMS the same as a risk assessment?
No. A risk assessment identifies hazards and controls. A RAMS pairs that risk assessment with a method statement describing how the work will be carried out.
Does a RAMS include a method statement?
Yes. The method statement is the part that sets out the sequence of work, access arrangements, equipment and supervision.
Who should prepare RAMS?
Someone who understands the work and the site — usually the contractor carrying out the task, a supervisor or a competent person within the business.
When should RAMS be reviewed?
Before the work starts, whenever the site, team, equipment or method changes, and after any incident or near miss connected to the task.
Can I reuse a RAMS template for another job?
The structure can be reused, but the content should be checked and adapted. Copying an old RAMS without reviewing the hazards for the new job is a common mistake.
Do RAMS need to be specific to the site?
They should reflect the actual work, location, access, people and hazards involved. Generic wording is often rejected by principal contractors.
How do I create RAMS for construction work?
Define the work, identify hazards, assess the risk, add controls, describe the safe sequence of work, brief the team and review it if conditions change.
Can I create RAMS digitally?
Yes. Graftly guides you through creating RAMS on a phone, tablet or desktop and stores the finished documents so you can find and share them later.
Browse the rest of our site safety resources for templates and guides covering COSHH, toolbox talks and incident reporting.