Mechanical & Electrical RAMS — Risk Assessments for M&E Installations
Generate comprehensive RAMS documents tailored to mechanical and electrical installation works. RAMS AI covers first fix containment, cable pulling, distribution board installation, pipework, ductwork, commissioning, and testing — all aligned with BS 7671, CDM 2015, and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
What an M&E RAMS Covers
- First fix containment – cable tray, basket, trunking, and conduit installation at height and in confined areas
- Cable pulling and termination – safe systems for drawing cables through risers, voids, and occupied spaces
- Distribution board installation – isolation procedures, labelling, and safe energisation protocols
- Pipework and ductwork – mechanical installations including LTHW, CHW, domestic services, and ventilation ductwork
- Commissioning and testing – electrical testing to BS 7671, pressure testing, and system handover procedures
- Coordination with other trades – managing interfaces between mechanical, electrical, and building works safely
- Temporary electrical supplies – safe installation and management of temporary power distribution on site
- Working in live environments – risk controls for M&E works in occupied or partially energised buildings
M&E Regulatory Framework
Mechanical and electrical works on construction sites are governed by multiple overlapping regulations including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations), and CDM 2015.
- Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 – duties to prevent danger from electrical systems
- BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 (IET Wiring Regulations) – requirements for electrical installations
- CDM 2015 – management of health and safety during construction
- Work at Height Regulations 2005 – cable routing and containment at height
- PUWER 1998 – provision and use of work equipment including power tools
- HSE GS38 – electrical test equipment for use by electricians
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should an M&E RAMS include?
- An M&E RAMS should cover all mechanical and electrical installation activities including containment, cable pulling, termination, pipework, ductwork, testing, and commissioning. It must identify hazards specific to M&E work such as electrical shock, arc flash, working at height, and manual handling.
- What electrical safety regulations apply to M&E RAMS?
- The primary regulations are the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations). HSE guidance GS38 covers safe use of electrical test equipment. CDM 2015 also applies.
- How do I address live working in an M&E RAMS?
- Live working should be a last resort. Your RAMS must demonstrate it is unreasonable for the work to be done dead, as required by Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, with detailed precautions.