Principal Contractor RAMS Review Checklist

How to Use This Checklist

Work through each category in order. A RAMS that fails any mandatory check should be returned to the subcontractor with specific feedback before the subcontractor starts work. Do not accept a RAMS with generic scope, identical pre/post risk scores, or missing emergency arrangements regardless of programme pressure.

Checklist Categories

1. Document completeness — Document reference, version number, date prepared, site name, and principal contractor name all present
2. Scope specificity — Scope describes this specific task at this specific site; not a generic trade description
3. Hazard register — Pre-control and post-control risk scores present and different; controls are actionable, not just “follow safe working practice”
4. Method statement sequence — Sequence is chronological from mobilisation to demobilisation; gaps or jumps in logic are a red flag
5. PPE — PPE listed matches the hazards; not just “PPE to be worn at all times”
6. Plant and equipment — All plant listed with competence references (CPCS, IPAF, Gas Safe, etc.) where applicable
7. COSHH — Substances relevant to the trade are referenced; COSHH assessment references included
8. Emergency arrangements — Task-specific first aid provision, emergency contacts, and evacuation procedure — not just a phone number
9. Briefing sign-off section — Space for operatives to sign before work starts; document has been or will be briefed
10. Version history — Document shows version number and date; RAMS will be reissued and rebriefed if scope changes

Common Reasons to Return RAMS for Revision

• Generic scope that does not name the site, location, or specific task
• Pre-control and post-control risk scores identical — no evidence that controls were genuinely applied
• Method statement too brief — lacks chronological detail or site-specific steps
• Missing COSHH references for substances known to be used in that trade
• Emergency section missing or limited to “call 999”