Industry-Specific RAMS Best Practices

 Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS) are essential documents that outline the hazards involved in specific tasks and the measures to mitigate these risks. While the core principles of RAMS are consistent, their application varies across different industries due to unique operational risks and regulatory requirements.

Differences between construction, field service and manufacturing industries:

Construction and field service industry: RAMS in the construction and field service sectors must be highly adaptive due to the project-based and mobile nature of the work.

1. Site-specific assessments are essential, as each site has unique conditions. RAMS in construction and field service are tailored for conditions such as uneven terrain and everchanging weather to varying materials and site-specific hazards.
2. These industries work in dynamic work environments, with construction sites often evolving and field service teams working across different customer locations. As a result, RAMS must be regularly reviewed and updated.
3. Both industries involve high-risk activities such as working at height, manual handling and the operation of heavy machinery or tools. Outlining the need for detailed, task-specific safety protocols.
4. In field service, there is also an additional complexity of lone working and customer interaction, which requires RAMS to address both physical and situational risks.

Manufacturing industry: In contrast, the manufacturing sector revolves around controlled, process-driven environments, which shapes a different RAMS approach.

1. Process-oriented assessments focus on repetitive workflows in manufacturing processes, fixed equipment and production line tasks. RAMS identifies hazards tied to operations rather than location.
2. The consistent and repetitive nature of manufacturing tasks means RAMS can often be standardised across roles, streamlining safety procedures while maintaining compliance.
3. Emphasis is placed on machine safety- including safeguarding moving parts, ensuring proper use of automation and meeting regulatory standards for workplace ergonomics and equipment handling.

Key Considerations for RAMS in Electrical Work:

• Electrical hazard identification: recognise risks such as electric shock, arc flash and equipment malfunctions.
• Isolation procedures: ensure clear protocols for de-energising and locking out electrical systems during maintenance.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): specify requirements like insulated gloves, face shields and flame-resistant clothing.
• Qualified personnel: limit electrical work to trained and authorised individuals.
• Emergency protocols: develop procedures for responding to electrical accidents, including first aid measures and emergency contact information.

Special risks to consider in RAMS for working at height:

• Fall hazards: assess risks of falling from ladders, scaffolding or elevated platforms.
• Fall protection systems: detail the use of harnesses, guardrails and other fall arrest systems.
• Training requirements: ensure workers are trained in safe work practices at height and the correct use of equipment.
• Rescue plans: Set up procedures for rescuing individuals in the event of a fall, including equipment and personnel needed.
• Weather conditions: consider the impact of weather on work at height, such as wind, rain or ice, which can increase risk.

Adapting RAMS for small businesses vs. large corporations:

Small businesses:

• Simplified documentation: develop concise RAMS that address the specific risks of the business without unnecessary complexity.
• Resource allocation: use available resources effectively, integrating RAMS into daily operations and training sessions.
• Regulatory compliance: ensure RAMS meet legal requirements without overburdening limited administrative capacities.

Large corporations:

• Comprehensive systems: implement detailed RAMS covering a wide range of activities and locations within the organisation.
• Standardisation: keep consistency in RAMS across departments to ensure consistent safety practices.
• Integration with safety management systems: align RAMS with broader health and safety policies, training programs and auditing processes.
• Regular reviews: set up a schedule for reviewing and updating RAMS to adapt to changing regulations and operational practices.

By tailoring RAMS to the specific needs and risks of each industry and organisational size, businesses can enhance safety, ensure compliance and foster a culture of proactive risk management.