I have been having a disagreement with a client over digital signature on Risk Assessments on Method Statements.

I do not like to use them because of the possibility of them being copied and pasted onto sub standard RAMS generated by untrained people.  However, the client is refusing to issue a permit to work without a signature on it.  However, we always ensure that all RAMS are hand signed by the author and taken to site before the works start.

What is the HSE's policy on the use of digital signatures in this case?  Any help would be much appreciated.

I don't think there is a policy on digital signatures for RAMS.  The HSE don't even state a requirement for hand written signatures on risk assessments.  I think you may be getting a little paranoid here.

Two points: as HSquared said there is no legal requirement for a signature of any sort on a risk assessment  but it might be a good idea if  you just a bit paranoid and want to make certain that  a piece of paper has been read and  the person signing has agreed to the actions described on it. Secondly, you are not talking about digital signature- you are just talking about a copy of a signature. This means nothing; just as a photocopy of a £5 note is not actually worth five pounds!

A digital signature is something that links the user to the document directly. If the document only exists electronically an electronic signature could consist of   a requirement to add an agreed password known only to the signer or  a scan of their thumb print or a signature taken directly onto the device ( like when you sign for delivery)  etc. All these options are quite hi-tech but they are genuine electronic signatures. You have to decide whether you really need one and what form it should take.

Edited by user 31 May 2018 10:18:37(UTC)  | Reason: words

Personally we generate documents using word editor or spreadsheet etc.

When complete and deemed necessary we insert an "electronic" signature image and save the file as a pdf document. The image is then removed from the editable version.

This fixed pdf document is the one communicated externally (although as others have pointed out with the intent and means anything can be altered)

Regarding your client look at it the other way they are trying to get permits arranged BEFORE your employees get to site and the alternative is that your staff sit around waiting for the documents being prepared

And as with all such matters the one controlling the purse strngs gets to set the rules 

Another vote on the 'why sign it at all?' route. In 23 years I've never signed a risk assessment, paper copy or otherwise, nor seen any benefit or requirement for doing so. Always seems to be too much of an 'admin first' approach to me and doesn't add anything to the process.

Originally Posted by: firesafety101

Tne HSE has published Sample risk assessments containing everything they say is needed on a risk assessment. No signatures.

They don't even include the name and address of the employer - pretty poor I say!!

I am concerned though that others have had their names put on to documents they didn't write, that needs addressing by senior management - technically I think that is actually a form of fraud, personation I think, so you definitely need to beware of that one!!