Whats a method statement is answered in a sentence: it is the document that says how a task will be done, step by step, with the controls from the risk assessment placed at the step where each applies. It exists because an assessment finds the controls and something has to say when and by whom each is put in place. The contractor writes it from the assessment, the crew reads and signs it, the site approves it. The risk assessment and method statement tool on this site builds it from the assessment, free and without an account.
What it contains
The task and site; the steps in order from setting up through the work to making safe; the control at each step referenced to the assessment's hazard; plant with inspections; permits; PPE; emergency and rescue arrangements; the sign-on. The HSE's guidance, cited below, gives risk assessment as five steps: identify hazards, assess the risks, control the risks, record your findings, review the controls, and says that if you employ 5 or more people you must record your significant findings.
Who writes and reads it
The contractor's competent person writes it with the crew; the crew reads it at the briefing and follows it; the principal contractor reads it at approval under CDM, cited below; an inspector reads the signed version after an incident.
Why it exists
A control that is not placed at a step is done from memory. The method turns the assessment's controls into a sequence someone can follow with a finger on the page. A method that a competent operative new to the site can follow is one that works; the tool prints the reading time as the check.
Is it required
Not by name; the risk assessment is. Managed sites require it for tasks with significant risk, which in practice means always. DailyLogDesk Pro keeps the signed method against the job; the tool prints it.
Questions people ask about whats a method statement
How is a method statement different from a risk assessment?
The assessment finds the hazards and controls; the method says how the work is done with the controls applied.
How long is a method statement?
As long as the task's steps; the tool prints the reading time.
Is the tool free?
Yes, without an account.