CART How to Write a Method Statement
Method Statements for the workplace
A method statement is an essential health and safety document that outlines the processes and procedures required to carry out a specific task safely and effectively. The task can often seem overwhelming and time-consuming for individuals new to writing method statements, particularly in complex or specialised industries. Basic method statements, such as the ones at HSEDocs, can come pre-prepared.
The importance of a method statement lies in its capacity to delineate each step involved in a task, ensuring adherence to risk assessments while prioritising worker safety, especially for those undertaking the task for the first time. This article aims to clarify the key components of a method statement and its crucial role in promoting health and safety within the workplace.
The primary focus of a method statement is to implement the control measures identified during the risk assessment process. It details how to set up and execute a task in a manner that minimises potential injuries on-site. These statements are especially vital for construction workers involved in high-risk activities or those using hazardous tools and materials.
When creating a method statement, using it in conjunction with the risk assessment template is advantageous. This approach ensures that the method statement effectively describes establishing a workspace that addresses identified risks. For example, it should outline necessary safety measures, protective equipment, and any required training for workers.
Each step detailed in the method section of the health and safety document must emphasise risk considerations. This involves guiding the safest techniques and practices for completing each task phase. The method statement should also incorporate contingencies for potential hazards, emergency procedures, and guidelines for reporting incidents or unsafe conditions.
In conclusion, a well-prepared method statement is both a guide for performing tasks safely and a framework for cultivating a safety culture in the workplace. It equips workers with the necessary knowledge to navigate complex tasks and ensures compliance with safety protocols, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries on-site.
Below are the key features for writing a method statement correctly:
Examples of pre-written method statements can be found at HSEDocs.
Section 1—Titles: This section of a method statement details the document's basis: the task's name, e.g., removing a bathroom suite, the company name, and the name of the project for which the document was created.
Section 2 - Start of Works: This section explains the dos and don'ts you must consider before starting the task. Usually, as a standard, the first line of a method statement instructs the reader to review any relevant risk assessments and COSHH assessments before proceeding.
Examples of other instructions in this section would be :
- Corner your workspace to make sure it is safe from other workers
- Put up signage in your work area to indicate the work being done
- Check your tools for any faults. Inspect your work area for any safety issues.
Section 3 - Method for Carrying Out the Task: This section must be detailed enough to explain each step of the task, yet clear enough for anyone to understand and follow without confusion. For example, ‘peel off any silicone sealant from around the bath edging using a hand scraper’. This is detailed enough to explain what needs to be done with what tool, but not too complex to confuse the reader. The final instruction in this section usually concerns clearing the site you have been working on and safely tidying away any tools to ensure nobody gets injured after you leave the site.
Section 4 - Signage: This document section provides the legal validation. Document author - the person responsible for health and safety. Signature Date the document was written. For a more detailed explanation of how to write a method statement health and safety document, click here.
Click here to download a template to help you write your first method statement.
The primary purpose of the method statement is to implement control measures derived from the risk assessment into the setup and method of a task, thereby preventing injuries on site. Method statements are primarily written for construction workers involved in high-risk activities and using hazardous tools.
If written with the risk assessment template, the method statement should outline how to set up your workspace to minimise the risk of injury based on the previously identified risks.
Additionally, each step in the method section of the health and safety document should be written considering the risks, thereby advising on the best method for performing each step while staying safe.
The risk assessment is a health and safety document created to identify the risks and hazards associated with a task. It suggests the control measures needed to mitigate the likelihood of that risk occurring. A method statement implements the control measures previously identified to ensure a task is completed as safely as possible.
For example, brick laying is a common task on construction sites. Handling bricks poses a hazard because they are heavy, and moving them around the site can increase the risk of injury if they are dropped.
The risk assessment should identify this hazard and suggest a control measure to prevent harm, such as wearing steel-toe cap boots and hard hats to protect yourself. The method statement should provide instructions on the correct PPE to wear before starting the task to reduce the risk of harm while performing it.
Therefore, the risk assessment is very different to the method statement, but they work in tandem to ensure a task is completed correctly and safely.
For an example of a risk assessment template, click here.
Method statements are not required by law, but are recommended to help reduce the risk of injury when completing a task. They should be written by somebody who clearly understands the steps to completing the task and the risks involved. Ideally, this person would be responsible for a site's health and safety, as they would have the most knowledge of potential hazards.
HSEDocs has over 20 years of experience in the Health and Safety industry.
Our highly trained experts create high-quality, concise health and safety documents and HSE courses to help you minimise risks in your workplace.
For guidance and templates on how to write a method statement, click here.
