Posted By Steve Butler Andrew My opinion - Risk assess each task and work from that basis before creating method statements. I have worked with the Head Porter at the NHS Trust i work for and have undertaken a simple review of how each task is carried out - risk assessed against the evidence and put in place what i would consider to be general and simple risk control measures. This enables that particular staff group to work safely with little hindrance to the tasks in question. They are a conscientious and hard working group (in my experience) and do not take kindly to jargon and technical stuff. Safe systems of working - a logical basic sequence (simple microsoft word format - colour for increased visibility) of the correct method is what i do if necessary after the assessment process. The group as a whole are much more likely to take ownership of duties and follow (easily understood) safe working practices this way. There is no 'one size fits all' but trial and error is a good starting point - use the H&S regs/guidance and your professional judgement and that of the Head Porter. The POMs issue is something else of course and for that i sought advice from the EA about correct disposal methods and acceptable practice. The assessment against chemical and biological hazards will of course prevail on certain issues relating to portering duties but almost all of their duties involve some manual handling. Email me to discuss further if you wish. Steve

Posted By Andrew Dias Gents, Thanks for your useful feedback. I am trying to develop visual step by step guides and hence my request for the text work statements. I now understand that a local risk assessment is needed. But it would be helpful to me if either of you have some text versions of the method statements you can share. I am really looking for some 'national standard' or 'generic' method statements, which can then be fine tuned based on local risk assessments. Is this realistic? regards Andrew

Posted By Charles Robinson Tech SP RR314-use of carry chairs by ambulance staff http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrhtm/rr314.htm