Method Statement Guidance
This document should be read in conjunction with other, more specific, Health and Safety Policies, Guidance,
Information sheets and other guidance as is appropriate
Department
Safety, Health and Environmental (SHE)
Author
Jo Smith / Claire Doran
Authorised by
Pro-Vice Chancellor, Operations
Implementation by
SHE Department
Document Control No.
GUI/HS/13-14/021
Document Replaced
New Document
Version No.
V1
Approval Committee
n/a
Date Approved
25/11/13
Minute No.
n/a
Status
Draft/Approved/Uncontrolled Implementation Date
25/11/13
Period of Approval
3 years
124/11/16
Review Date
What is a method statement?
A method statement (MS), sometimes referred to as a safe work method statement (SWMS) or a safe work
procedure, is a part of a workplace safety plan. It is predominately to describe a document that gives specific
instructions on how to safely perform a work related task, or operate a piece of plant or equipment.
Under the Health and Safety at work Act etc. 1974 the employer must ensure so far as reasonably practicable the
health, safety and wellbeing of its employees, furthermore it must ensure that there is suitable information,
instruction, training and supervision of its employees.
The method statement is a response to this legislation and is generally used as part of a safety induction to a task
and then referred to as required throughout a workplace. The statement is generally used to outline all the hazards
that are likely to be encountered when undertaking a task or process and provide detailed guidance on how to carry
out the task safely.
The MS will establish any hazards associated with the task and a risk assessment must be produced, as required by
law.
Who completes the Method Statement?
You. If you are responsible for the task within the department or if you are the supervisor of the task. Then you
must complete the paperwork process. You must complete all sections of the method statement and attach all
documents that are mentioned in the MS and referenced. You must make sure that all those involved with the task
are aware of the method statements existence, its sequence, emergency procedures and what to do if changes are
to be made. The line manager must also register his/her understanding of the document and agree to its process.
Completing the form
Ensure you input as much detail as possible. Guidance has been provided in blue type which can be deleted from
your document. If needs be consult with other staff members to ensure all points to the task are covered.
Ensure that all paperwork is kept in the vicinity of the task for future reference or in your department Health and
Safety Folder.
The SHE Dept. are available to review documents if you require and offer guidance if necessary. You can contact us
on 01978 29(3423) or email healthandsafety@glyndwr.ac.uk
A blank form can be found on Glynfo
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Method Statement
Job Name
Job Ref.
Put job name here
Input a ref number
Method Statement for:
Very brief description of the task or job title
Prepared by
Date
Document Ref.
Issue
Name in Block Capitals
Date MS Written
Ref number
Issue no.
Line Manager Name
Line Manger Signature
Date
Approved/Declined/Amended
Name in Block Capitals
Signature
Date
MS Status
Declaration (All those involved in the task must sign here to agree they understand the task and what is contained
within the document)
I confirm that I have read or the document has been read out to me and that I understand the contents and agree to
abide by them:
Signed
Date
Continue on separate sheet if necessary.
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Method Statement
Scope
Provide a brief description of the task? E.g. the method statement covers the engineering works and building works
associated with digging a trench.
Resources
State what resources are needed to complete the task? List the staff, machinery and plant to be used.
Method Sequence
Provide a detailed work schedule based on the scope. Ensure that any preparatory work is included e.g. barriers
required, communication with those the task affects etc. Number and list the sequence of the task e.g.
1. Close area off for access by non-employees
2. Put signs up directing flow of traffic
References
The following documents have been considered in the above method sequence: (think about including University
policies and procedures)
1. Room Drawings
2. HSE Guidance Documents
COSHH
Identify any COSHH implications and or relevant to the task if so you need to mention it here and attach COSHH risk
Assessments and MSDS sheets to the back of this document. Keep the documents at the point of use.
Department Rules
Materials and Equipment
List any materials used and the rules relating to them e.g. All hand held tools are to be inspected prior to use at
regular intervals and then placed back where they came from. The equipment used must be fit for purpose
Personal Protective Equipment
List the PPE that the staff/student is mandated to wear. This must not be allowed to be deviated from.
Training
List the training requirements needed for the task to be completed. E.g. if using a ladder for the task has the person
completed a working at height training course? Include relevant documents to prove training and competency. Only
competent persons are to carry out the task.
Estate Arrangements
Ensure you know if there are any specific rules for the area the task is being completed in. For example you may but
putting up a shelf and there is asbestos present. Are there any restrictions to the area such as only trained personnel
allowed?
Manual Handling
What manual handling is required during the task, you must endeavour to eliminate lifting, can you use mechanical
aides, use safe handling techniques, seek assistance if item/task is heavy
Environmental
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Identify within the task any impact on the environment around you? Are you using substances that need to be
removed by licensed carrier? In the event of a spill what will you do, in the event of escaped gases what will you do?
Access and Egress
The rooms being used must be kept tidy at all times ensure fire exits are not blocked ensure a briefing session has
occurred to let all know of the rules of the room. Access and egress is only for those undertaking the task.
Emergency Arrangements
First Aid
What provisions do you have in place, who is the first aider, where is the nearest kit, is it suitable and sufficient for
the accidents that may occur as a result of the task? E.g. welding = burns = burns kit. How do you get hold of a first
aider, where is the nearest hospital how long does it take to get there. What other equipment and training is
required?
Fire
In the event of a fire you must evacuate, where is this done to and do you have all those with you who were in your
care. Detail here that you will brief the persons in your care of the procedures.
Accident/Incident reporting
All accidents/incidents/near misses must be reported to the Supervisor – what is the department’s procedure, what is
the Universities procedure? You must ensure that you report the incident as soon as possible it may require further
investigation.
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Management of Change
If during the course of the task it is found that there is a need to carry out procedures other than those detailed on
the method statement?
Then you must STOP, TAKE 5 minutes and assess the situation, amend the method statement and risk assessment,
state and record any changes made.
Significant changes
If there is significant changes required to the method statement the task must STOP and the method statement and
risk assessment revised.
Minor Changes
If during the course of the task there is need to take minor adjustments to the method statement the following
section(s) must be completed.
ALL changes must be briefed to all relevant persons, signatures must be gained to confirm re-briefing
Minor Changes
This method statement and associated risks should only be changed in consultation
with those involved in the task and/or the supervisor/line manger
Section
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Change agreed by:
Change debrief completed by
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Name
Name
Name
Signature
Date & Time
GUI/HS/13-14/021