Risk Assessment & Method Statement

Company: Matt Green Handyman
Prepared by: Matt Green
Date: Aug 2025
Review Date: Annually

1. Scope of Work

This RAMS covers all general handyman services carried out by Matt Green in domestic homes across York and surrounding villages. Services may include but are not limited to: minor plumbing, painting and decorating, gutter cleaning and repair, furniture assembly, installation of fixtures and fittings, and other small household repairs. Some work may take place at height and/or outdoors.

2. Personnel

Primary operative: Matt Green

Third-party builders may be hired as required for larger projects

All operatives will follow this RAMS and hold adequate public liability insurance

3. Locations

Domestic residential properties (occupied and unoccupied)

Occasionally outdoors and/or at height

4. Hazards Identified

Working at height (e.g. ladders for gutters)

Electrical hazards when replacing fittings or sockets

Manual handling (lifting/moving heavy or awkward items)

Slips, trips, and falls

Working with power tools and hand tools

Dust, debris, or fumes from materials

Potential hazards to clients, occupants, or the public during work

5. Risk Control Measures

Working at Height:

• Ladders inspected before use, secured or footed where necessary

• Avoid overreaching, maintain three points of contact

• Weather conditions assessed before outdoor height work

Electrical Work:

• Electrical circuits isolated before work begins

• Only minor electrical work undertaken (replacing fixtures and sockets)

• No major electrical installations or rewiring undertaken

Manual Handling:

• Assess weight and shape before lifting

• Use mechanical aids or two-person lifts where needed

• Keep loads close to the body and lift with legs, not back

Slips, Trips, Falls:

• Keep work area tidy and free from unnecessary obstacles

• Use dust sheets and secure trailing leads

Tools & Equipment:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of tools

• Use of correct tool for the job

• Follow manufacturer instructions for safe use

Dust, Debris, Fumes:

• Use dust suppression (dampening, extraction) where practical

• Wear suitable respiratory protection when required

Client & Public Safety:

• Work area cordoned off or restricted where necessary

• Communicate hazards to occupants before starting work

6. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

As required for the task:

• Safety gloves

• Safety goggles or glasses

• Dust mask/respirator

• Hearing protection for noisy tasks

• Hi-visibility clothing when working outdoors near traffic

• Non-slip safety footwear

7. Method Statement

Arrival & Setup:

• Arrive at property and confirm job details with client

• Assess the work area for hazards and agree access arrangements

• Lay dust sheets or protective covers where needed

• Set up tools and equipment in a safe, organised way

Carrying Out the Work:

• Follow agreed method for each task, using appropriate tools and PPE

• Maintain tidy workspace to reduce risks

• Pause work immediately if unexpected hazards arise and reassess risks

• Keep client informed of progress and any changes to the job

Completion:

• Check work for quality and safety before signing off

• Remove waste materials from site unless otherwise agreed

• Clean and tidy the work area, remove protective covers

• Ensure the area is left safe for occupants

8. Emergency Procedures

First aid kit kept in work vehicle at all times

In the event of injury, assess severity and call 999 if required

Report incidents to the client immediately

For electrical incidents, isolate power supply before attempting assistance

Fire: evacuate occupants, call fire service, do not re-enter until safe

9. Waste Management

Waste generated will be removed from site unless otherwise specified by the customer

Waste disposed of in accordance with local regulations

Recyclable materials separated where possible

10. Review

This RAMS will be reviewed annually or sooner if there is a significant change in work type, legislation, or after an incident.