What Is a Method Statement? (UK Workplace Guide)

method statement is a document that explains how a task will be carried out safely, step by step.

It is often used alongside a risk assessment, particularly for higher-risk or complex work.

What a Method Statement Includes

A method statement typically covers:

  • The task being carried out
  • The sequence of work
  • Equipment and materials used
  • Safety controls and precautions
  • Competence and supervision requirements

When Are Method Statements Used?

They are commonly required for:

  • Construction and building work
  • Maintenance and installation tasks
  • High-risk activities
  • Client or contractor-controlled sites

Method Statement vs Risk Assessment

  • A risk assessment identifies hazards and risks
  • A method statement explains how the work will be done safely

Together, they provide a clear and practical approach to risk control.

The Bottom Line

Method statements help ensure work is planned, controlled, and carried out consistently and safely.

For organisations that create RAMS regularly, using a documentation system rather than standalone templates can make review, reuse, and compliance much more straightforward. The Docuqo RAMS Documentation System (UK) is designed for exactly that purpose.

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The RAMS Documentation System (UK) brings the core documents and guidance together in one clear, repeatable system

A structured way to create and manage RAMS

If you regularly prepare RAMS, knowing which documents are required — and how they fit together — is often the hardest part.

The RAMS Documentation System (UK) brings the core documents and guidance together in one clear, repeatable system — helping you create task-specific RAMS without guesswork or unnecessary paperwork.

Includes the core RAMS documents most jobs require

View the RAMS Documentation System