SSSTS Method Statements

Question 1

What is the purpose of a method statement on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

To describe the safe system of work for a specific activity, detailing the sequence of operations, hazards, and control measures step by step

Answer

To list the materials needed for a task

Answer

To set out the programme of works

Answer

To record completed work for billing purposes

Question 2

Who should be involved in preparing a method statement for a high-risk activity such as steel erection?

Accepted Answer

The site supervisor, workers who will carry out the task, the structural engineer, and the health and safety adviser

Answer

Only the office-based planner

Answer

Only the client

Answer

The method statement is provided by the HSE

Question 3

What key information should a method statement include?

Accepted Answer

The scope of work, sequence of operations, hazards and risks, control measures, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and the competencies needed

Answer

Only the name of the contractor

Answer

Only the start and finish dates

Answer

A drawing of the finished product

Question 4

How should a method statement be communicated to the workers who will carry out the task?

Accepted Answer

Brief the workers directly, explain each step and the associated controls, answer questions, confirm understanding, and keep the document accessible on site

Answer

Pin it on the noticeboard and assume everyone reads it

Answer

Email it to the main office

Answer

It does not need to be communicated — it is a management document only

Question 5

When should a method statement be revised?

Accepted Answer

When site conditions change, the work method is altered, new hazards are identified, after an incident, or when a review identifies improvements

Answer

Never — once written it is final

Answer

Only when the client requests changes

Answer

Only at the end of the project for lessons learned

Question 6

What is the relationship between a risk assessment and a method statement?

Accepted Answer

The risk assessment identifies the hazards and evaluates the risks, while the method statement describes how the work will be done safely, incorporating the control measures identified in the risk assessment

Answer

They are unrelated documents

Answer

A method statement replaces the need for a risk assessment

Answer

A risk assessment replaces the need for a method statement