What is a Method Statement? Understanding the Basics
A method statement is a vital document that outlines the safe working methods to be followed when carrying out a specific task or activity. It serves as a clear, step-by-step guide that details how work should be performed safely, particularly for high-risk activities. If you’ve ever wondered “what is a method statement exactly?”, it’s essentially a procedural document that complements risk assessments and forms a crucial part of your health and safety management system.
At AL23 Safety, we understand that creating effective method statements is essential for businesses across the UK. They are not just bureaucratic paperwork but powerful tools that protect your workers, maintain compliance with health and safety legislation, and safeguard your business against potential liabilities.
Why Method Statements Matter in UK Workplaces
Method statements are not explicitly required by UK law, but they are implicitly necessary to comply with several key pieces of legislation, including:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
- The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
These regulations require employers to ensure the safety of their workers and others who might be affected by their work activities. A well-crafted method statement demonstrates your commitment to these legal obligations and shows that you have taken reasonable steps to control workplace risks.
When is a Method Statement Required?
Not every task requires a method statement. Typically, you’ll need one for:
- High-risk activities
- Non-routine operations
- Complex tasks that involve multiple steps or teams
- Work that could affect the public or other workers
- Activities required by clients or principal contractors
Construction method statements are particularly common, as the industry involves numerous high-risk activities such as working at height, excavations, and demolition work.
Key Components of an Effective Method Statement
Understanding what a method statement is means knowing what information it should contain. A comprehensive method statement typically includes:
1. Project Details
- Project name and location
- Client information
- Expected duration
- Site-specific details
2. Management and Responsibilities
- Names and roles of key personnel
- Qualifications and competencies
- Chain of command
- Emergency contacts
3. Risk Assessment References
- Specific hazards identified
- Control measures to be implemented
- Cross-references to relevant risk assessments
4. Step-by-Step Methodology
- Detailed breakdown of work procedures
- Sequence of operations
- Equipment and materials to be used
- Safety precautions at each stage
5. Resources Required
- Plant and equipment needed
- PPE requirements
- Access equipment
- Special tools or materials
6. Emergency Procedures
- First aid arrangements
- Emergency response plans
- Evacuation procedures
- Incident reporting protocols
How AL23 Safety Can Help with Your Method Statements
At AL23 Safety, we specialise in developing tailored health and safety method statements that meet both legal requirements and industry best practices. Our expert consultants bring years of experience across various sectors, ensuring your method statements are:
- Compliant: Fully aligned with current UK legislation and industry standards
- Practical: Usable documents that workers can easily understand and follow
- Comprehensive: Covering all necessary aspects without unnecessary complexity
- Customised: Specifically designed for your unique workplace activities
We offer a range of services to support your method statement needs:
- Development of new method statements for specific activities
- Review and improvement of existing documentation
- Method statement templates customised to your business
- Training for your staff on how to create and use method statements effectively
- Integration of method statements with your broader safety management system
Method Statement vs Risk Assessment: Understanding the Difference
A common point of confusion is the relationship between method statements and risk assessments. While they work together, they serve different purposes:
- A risk assessment identifies hazards and evaluates risks, determining what might cause harm and how likely it is to happen.
- A method statement describes how the work will be carried out safely, incorporating the control measures identified in the risk assessment.
Think of the risk assessment as identifying what could go wrong, while the method statement explains how you’ll prevent it from happening. Both documents are essential components of a robust safety management system.
Best Practices for Creating Method Statements
When developing a method statement, follow these proven practices:
- Involve the right people: Include those who will actually perform the work
- Keep it clear and concise: Avoid jargon and overly complex language
- Make it specific: Generic statements are rarely effective
- Review and update: Method statements should be living documents
- Ensure accessibility: Make sure workers can easily access and understand the document
- Verify implementation: Check that the methods described are actually being followed
Conclusion: The Value of Professional Method Statements
Understanding what a method statement is represents just the beginning. Implementing effective method statements throughout your operations can significantly reduce workplace accidents, improve operational efficiency, and demonstrate your commitment to legal compliance.
AL23 Safety is committed to helping businesses across the UK develop and maintain high-quality method statements that protect both workers and businesses. Our expert consultants provide practical support tailored to your specific needs, ensuring your method statements are not just paperwork but valuable tools for safer operations.
Don’t wait for an incident to highlight gaps in your safety documentation. Contact AL23 Safety today to discuss how we can help you develop effective method statements that meet your legal obligations and keep your workforce safe.
