Posted By Mercury I have been asked recently to define "Method Statement" and "Safe System of Work". Having now spent time doing the research i cannot see that there is any difference between the two. Can anybody shed any light on the matter? Is there a difference or is it a different term for the same thing?

Posted By Pete Longworth There isn't a difference. All a method statement is, is a safe system of work for a particular contract. If, for instance, you need a method statement for digging a trench, it would detail step by step how you mean to go about doing the work, who will be involved in each stage, what equipment you will use, and which precautions you intend to take while carrying out the work. Obviously that may differ for each contract, depending on circumstances and conditions. A safe system of work is exactly the same thing, but would normally, but not necessarily, be for a task that may be repeated more often, say for instance, a production process.

Posted By Ron Hunter The MS is only a small part (written instruction or plan) of the overall SSoW which would include supervision, information, instruction, training, competencies; the safe use, transport and disposal of work equipment, articles and substances etc.

Posted By Tony abc jprhdnMurphy Ron is right a Method Statement or written plan forms part of the safe system of work. The idea behind it is so that the operatives read it and sign to say they understand it. The MS should only be used where the risks are such that it forms part of a safe system. I for one hate to see Method statements for activities such as installation of lockers or other mundane activities. It defeats the object, and is not safer.