Temporary Works RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in a Temporary Works RAMS

BS 5975:2019 management framework

BS 5975:2019 (Code of Practice for Temporary Works Procedures and the Permissible Stress Design of Falsework) sets out the management framework for all temporary works in UK construction — including excavation support, falsework, propping, needling, cofferdams, crane bases, and piling mats. The RAMS must reference BS 5975, identify the Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) and Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS), and confirm that the temporary works register is maintained.

Temporary Works Coordinator — appointment and duties

A Temporary Works Coordinator must be formally appointed in writing by the principal contractor before any temporary works commence. The TWC must have appropriate engineering competence for the scheme type and complexity. The TWC is responsible for: maintaining the site temporary works register; coordinating design and design check; issuing permits to load and permits to strike; and confirming as-installed conditions match the approved design. The RAMS must name the TWC or confirm the appointment process.

Design and independent check

All engineered temporary works must have a design produced by a suitably qualified engineer and independently checked by a different suitably qualified engineer. The design check is mandatory under BS 5975 — it cannot be waived even on simple schemes. The RAMS must reference the design document number, the designer, and the checking engineer, and confirm that both have signed off the design before installation commences.

Permit to load and permit to strike

No temporary works scheme may be loaded (placed under load from permanent works) without a written permit to load from the TWC. No temporary works scheme may be removed or struck without a written permit to strike. Both permits must confirm that the installation has been inspected and that the relevant criteria (installation complete, design verified, permanent works strength achieved) are met. Verbal authority is never acceptable.