How to Write a RAMS for Working at Height

Why Working at Height Needs a RAMS

Falls from height are the biggest killer in UK construction. HSE reported 40 fatal falls in 2022/23. That's why every job involving working at height needs a proper RAMS.

What Counts as Working at Height?

Anything where a person could fall and injure themselves:

• Ladders and stepladders
• Scaffolding
• Mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs / cherry pickers)
• Roof work (pitched or flat)
• Working near fragile surfaces
• Working near excavations or voids

Yes, even a 1-metre stepladder counts.

The Hierarchy of Controls

Before you write your RAMS, apply the hierarchy:

1. Avoid — can you do it from ground level? (e.g. pole-mounted tools)
2. Prevent the fall — guardrails, scaffolding, edge protection
3. Mitigate the fall — safety nets, airbags
4. Last resort — personal fall arrest (harness + lanyard)

Your RAMS should justify why you're using the method you've chosen.

What to Include in Your RAMS

Risk Assessment Section

• Falls from height — likelihood, severity, residual risk
• Falling objects (tools, materials)
• Scaffold collapse or instability
• Adverse weather (wind, rain, ice)
• Fragile surfaces
• Overhead cables / services

Method Statement Section

1. Equipment — scaffold type, ladder class, MEWP spec
2. Inspection — who inspects, when, what to check
3. Access/egress — how workers get up and down safely
4. Edge protection — guardrails, toe boards, brick guards
5. Loading — max load per platform, material storage
6. Weather limits — wind speed thresholds, rain/ice procedures
7. PPE — harness (if required), helmet, boots
8. Emergency — rescue plan if someone falls

Scaffold Example

Task: Bricklaying from scaffolding on a two-storey house.

Controls:

• Scaffold erected by CISRS-trained scaffolder
• Inspected every 7 days and after adverse weather (TG20:21)
• Guardrails at 950mm and mid-rail at 470mm
• Toe boards 150mm high
• Brick guards fitted where bricks are lifted
• Max load 2.0 kN/m² (working platform, class 4)
• No work in winds >25mph or during ice/snow
• Safe ladder access with 3-point contact rule

Ladder Example

Task: Gutter cleaning using an extension ladder.

Controls:

• Ladder inspected before use (no damage, rungs secure)
• 1-in-4 angle (75°)
• Secured at top OR footed at base by second person
• Extends 1m above landing point
• Both hands free when climbing (tools in belt or hoisted)
• Work duration <30 minutes
• Dry weather only

Generate your working at height RAMS →