BEE level 1

It's essentially a chance assessment document detailing the work that is usually to be carried out in a precise, specific and orderly manner. It takes to deal with all of the potential risks and hazards related to the task.

Many years ago a subcontractor might get away with a vague generic construction method statement. Today, both architects and principle contractors are scrutinizing methods statements more closely.

Why all of the fuss about?

Construction remains a disproportionally unsafe environment in comparison with industries like manufacturing. In an attempt to lessen incidents (many that are fatal), contractors and subcontractors are expected to perform a series of documents to adhere to safety legislation - certainly one of that will be the mandatory risk assessment.

On medium to large SHE consultants sites, the principle contractors are taking method statement documents very seriously - so seriously that actually as a subcontractor, you might be prevented from taking care of a website without the proper risk assessments and method statement documentation duly signed by all of the parties.

The subcontractor, as an example, must detail precisely how they'll be doing specific tasks.

Example: Say a subcontractor must do some deep trenching. As we all know, deep trenching can be potentially dangerous to the workmen, and the folks round the vicinity of the work area.

What the method statement does is explain how the task will soon be done in a secure and orderly manner. It details precisely how the subcontractor will prevent any collapse of the trench, for example.

How will the responsible people ensure that you will see support on all sides - at 45 degree angle to the horizontal?

What methods have been in place to make sure that the vertical trench side below the support portion will not exceed 1.5 meters in height?

What is the method to inspect that the supports will soon be checked daily to make sure its effectiveness?

Construction method statements are essentially risk assessments for particular tasks.

Put simply; it's a careful examination of what could cause injury to people so your responsible people can weigh up what precautions will be.

Oftentimes, the subcontractor needs to submit the chance assessment to the Engineer, as required by the project tender terms and conditions.

This document also covers details pertaining to:

Construction methods and procedures

What materials and equipment to be properly used

How will the subcontractor/contractor get the gear to and from site

Where will the materials be stored

The exact location of activities

Satisfy everyone that compliance/ non-compliance with the Specifications are being followed legal and local regulatory requirements

Any deemed necessary by the Engineer

The method statement should be accepted and signed off by all of the parties involved; namely the subcontractor, the principle contractor and sometimes by the consulting engineers before the work begins.