Posted By Des Daly I am currently being hounded by a client that requires method statements for the minor construction work we are carrying out to be morelike an extremely detailed explanantion of the work process ( they are actually objecting to the font we use (Arial)). They request that the Method Statements are written for people with no prior knowledge or training for the work. They use the analogy of a person hammering a nail into a wall. Process would be:- 1. Purchase nails 2. Take nails to site 3. Use hammer ( wooden handle 1kg steel hammer head). 4. Take single nail 5. Hold nail in fingers of hand not going to be used to swing hammer. 6. Pick up hammer and strike end of nail with sufficient force to drive it wholly or partially into the material being nailed into. 7. hammer to be raised and then force applied through the arm Blah! Blah! Blah! I feel that their obsession with detail is losing the purpose of the Method Statement - it is reducing it to a backside covering inurance/risk management exercise. I do not see the point of writing out reams of drivel when what is required is a safe system of work that is easily understood and communicable to those carrying out the work. Before sticking in heels I would appreciate the views of my peers on 'Method Statements - their role in improving health and safety'

Posted By Paul Craythorne Des, A method statement is a detailed safe system of work derived from the process of risk assessment. It should be explanatory but concise and leave no element of doubt but allow for the exisitng knowledge, experience and training of the people who are to work to it. To go to the extent that you described is pure lunacy and will end up with a method statement that is treated with contempt by the workforce and not used. Hope this helps. Regards, Paul Craythorne

Posted By Graham Sargeant Des, I agree this approach to a MS is mad, what use is a document that no one will read. I have had similar experiences where a client was more concerned with the layout of a document than its content. When I check contractors MS Im happy for example if it refers to a recognised safe system of work (eg. the use of SG4 when errecting scaffold), overkill of detail means the document loses its purpose.

Posted By Ian Stone Does anyone know if the HSE document on Method Statments still exsists, Ive had a look on their website but cant find it? Ian

Posted By Smurfer Des - I think this may be the document Ian's thinking of. Some brief info on method statements is given in "Safe erection of structures. Part 1: initial planning and design" HSE 1984. Where appropriate, method statements should include: (a) arrangements for scheme management, including scheme coordination and the responsibilities and authority of supervisory personnel at all levels; (b) erection sequences, noting the scheduled starting position, or positions if phased construction is required; (c) methods of ensuring stability at all times of individual members (including columns) and sub-assemblies, as well as the partially erected structure; (d) the detailed method of erecting the structure, the erection scheme, which should be devised to ensure that activities such as lifting, unslinging, initial connecting, alignment and final connecting can be carried out safely; (e) provisions to aid the prevention of falls from height, including safe means of access and safe places of work: these may include special platforms and walkways; arranging to complete permanent walkways early; mobile towers, aerial platforms; slung, suspended or other scaffolds; secured ladders; safety harnesses and safety nets; (f) protection from falls of materials, tools and debris by the provision of barriers such as screens, fans and nets; (g) the provision of suitable plant (including cranes) as well as tools and equipment of sufficient strength and quantity; (h) contingency arrangements should there be, for instance, a breakdown of essential plant, or if components are delivered out of sequence; (j) arrangements for delivery, stacking, storing, movement on site, on-site fabrication or pre-assembly and the siting of offices and mess rooms; (k) details of site features, layout and access, with notes on how these may affect proposed arrangements and methods of working. Appendix C Although the format of method statements may vary they should: (a) form a single document, preferably including annotated diagrams; (b) be capable of being modified to cater for any planned change in the system of work; (c) be indexed for ease of reference; (d) follow a logical sequence, have each stage of the sequence clearly titled and be concise and unambiguous; (e) refer to the grid line and member identification marks; (f) be clearly marked with the date of preparation and revision number or letter, where applicable, so that the issue being used at any instant can be identified readily. 2 Many tasks are repetitive and may be covered by standard sheets. Activities which are critical to safe erection however should be specified in full on each new document. Text should be succinct. Probably doesn't help you though ;-)