RAMS training has become essential across construction, manufacturing, facilities management and many other high-risk industries. When a job involves hazards — anything from working at height to electrical work or manual handling — organisations must prove they can plan, control and communicate risks properly. That’s exactly what RAMS training helps teams achieve.
This guide unpacks what RAMS are, why they matter, what RAMS training covers, and includes practical examples of Risk Assessments and Method Statements you can refer to.
What Does RAMS Stand For?
RAMS stands for Risk Assessments and Method Statements. These two documents form the backbone of a safe system of work for any task that could cause harm.
Risk Assessment
A Risk Assessment identifies hazards, evaluates the likelihood and severity of harm, and determines the controls needed to reduce risk to an acceptable level.
Method Statement
A Method Statement explains how a task will be completed safely step-by-step. It includes responsibilities, equipment requirements and specific control measures.
Together, these documents help organisations comply with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and show that work has been properly planned.
Why RAMS Training Matters
RAMS training gives workers the ability to identify risks, plan safe work and communicate those plans clearly. Rather than relying on assumptions or “how it’s always been done,” RAMS training encourages a structured, evidence-based approach.
With strong RAMS training, workers can:
- Spot hazards that may otherwise be missed
- Assess risk using consistent, logical methods
- Apply the hierarchy of control to choose the best safety measures
- Write clear, usable Method Statements
- Maintain compliance with UK health and safety laws
Robust RAMS improve communication, reduce accidents and help create a culture where planning is valued.
Who Needs RAMS Training?
RAMS training is useful for anyone who plans, supervises or carries out higher-risk activities. This includes:
- Site managers and supervisors
- Team leaders
- Contractors and subcontractors
- Maintenance teams
- Health and safety personnel
- Workers who must prepare RAMS before starting a job
The more people who understand RAMS on a site, the more consistent the safety culture becomes.
Examples of RAMS Documents
Below are simplified examples that show the level of detail RAMS training typically covers.
Example Risk Assessment: Working at Height
Task: Install lighting at 3 metres height using a mobile tower scaffold.
Hazards:
- Falls from height
- Tools or materials dropped from the platform
- Incorrect assembly of the scaffold
- Adverse weather during outdoor work
Risk Controls:
- Operatives trained in PASMA
- Tower assembled following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Guardrails and toe boards fitted
- Tools secured to prevent dropping
- Work area cordoned off
Residual Risk: Low, if all controls are followed.
Example Method Statement: Replacing a Warehouse Light Fitting
Scope: Replace multiple ceiling-mounted lighting units in Warehouse Unit B.
Step-by-step process:
- Supervisor conducts a safety briefing and reviews the Risk Assessment.
- Work area is cordoned off and signage displayed.
- MEWP positioned on level ground and pre-use checks completed.
- Operators wear harnesses and secure tools with lanyards.
- Electrical supply isolated before removing fixtures.
- Old fittings removed and lowered safely to the ground team.
- New fittings installed and tested before power is restored.
- Area cleared and signed off by the supervisor.
Emergency Arrangements:
First aid kit onsite; MEWP emergency lowering procedure; supervisor holds emergency contacts.
What’s Covered in RAMS Training?
Training content varies between providers, but most courses include:
- Legal responsibilities under UK safety regulations
- Identifying hazards effectively
- Using risk matrices and scoring systems
- Selecting appropriate control measures
- Writing clear Method Statements
- Reviewing and updating RAMS
- Communicating RAMS to a team
Many courses also include practical exercises where learners create a full RAMS document based on a scenario.
The Value of RAMS in Everyday Work
RAMS aren’t just paperwork; they’re a mindset. Good RAMS anticipate problems before they appear. They turn uncertainty into structure and help teams approach complex jobs with clarity and confidence.
In fast-paced industries, this kind of planning doesn’t just protect people — it reduces downtime, prevents delays and strengthens trust between workers, supervisors and clients.
RAMS training equips workers with the planning and foresight needed to deliver safe, well-controlled work. Whether you’re supervising a team, operating equipment or preparing technical tasks, understanding RAMS supports safer, more efficient and more professional work across every level of an organisation.