SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK (SSOW)

Method Statements for ContractorsHow to write, structure and execute safe systems of work.

A comprehensive UK guide to authoring professional, audit-ready Method Statements for commercial facilities management, M&E engineering, and building maintenance work.

7 min read•Updated 2026• UK Commercial FM Standard

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Executive Summary

A method statement translates safety controls into an actionable, chronological sequence of operations that site engineers can easily follow and commercial clients can verify.

Authoritative UK facilities management guidance. Non-legal operational standard.

01 // THE RAMS WORKFLOW

How the Method Statement Connects to the Job

STEP 1

Risk Assessment

Identifies hazards and required controls.

STEP 2

Method Statement

Explains how work is safely executed step-by-step.

STEP 3

On-Site Delivery

Operatives follow sequence and agreed controls.

STEP 4

Review & Evidence

Photos, test sheets, and sign-offs captured.

IN-DEPTH GUIDE

What Is a Method Statement? Comprehensive Contractor Guide

Explore safe systems of work, mandatory sections, and common drafting errors.

Read Guide →

02 // DOCUMENT SECTIONS

Core Sections of a Professional Method Statement

Project, Scope & Location

Detailed task description, location, operating hours, client contact details.

Supervision & Personnel Competencies

Named supervisor, CSCS/JIB/Gas Safe registration numbers, first aider details.

Access, Egress & Plant Delivery

Routes to work area, loading bay arrangements, lift usage, protection of client flooring.

Plant, Machinery & Tooling (PUWER/LOLER)

All 110V/battery tools, ladders, scaffold towers (PASMA), calibration test certs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Task-specific PPE: dielectric gloves, eye protection, harness, FFP3 masks.

Step-by-Step Chronological Sequence

Arrival -> Isolations/LOTO -> Intrusive Works -> Testing/Commissioning -> Clean-down.

Emergency, Fire & Spill Arrangements

Nearest fire exit, assembly point, spill kit location, emergency rescue procedures.

Waste Management & Environmental Controls

Licensed waste disposal, hazardous chemical containment, scrap metal recycling.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Method Statement FAQs

Practical answers on drafting, site variations, and client sign-off procedures.

What is a Method Statement?↓

A Method Statement (often referred to as a Safe System of Work or SSoW) is a detailed, chronological document detailing exactly how a specific job will be carried out safely. It outlines the sequence of operations, equipment to be used, isolation procedures, required PPE, and emergency arrangements.

What is the difference between a RAMS and a Method Statement?↓

RAMS includes both the Risk Assessment (which evaluates hazards and calculates scores) and the Method Statement. The Method Statement is the practical, operational half of RAMS — it takes the control measures identified in the Risk Assessment and turns them into a step-by-step procedure for operatives to follow on site.

Who writes the Method Statement?↓

The contractor or subcontractor undertaking the work must author the Method Statement. It should be written by a technically competent person who understands the trade, plant, site constraints, and equipment involved.

Can I use the same Method Statement for multiple sites?↓

While core engineering procedures (such as changing a 3-port valve or servicing an AHU) remain similar, the Method Statement must be adapted to each site's physical layout, access routes, building occupancy, isolation points, and emergency muster stations.

KNOWLEDGE ECOSYSTEM