Why Method Statements Matter (Without Overcomplicating Things)
In many workplaces, especially in construction, maintenance, or facilities safety is front and centre. But how do we make sure tasks are properly planned, risks are understood, and everyone knows how to carry out their job safely?
Enter the method statement.
A method statement isn’t a box-ticking exercise. It’s a simple but powerful document that helps protect people, prevent accidents, and show that you’re doing things the right way. It’s not meant to be overcomplicated, in fact, when done well, it’s clear, concise, and genuinely useful.
This guide is written for staff, clients, and the wider public. Anyone who wants a better understanding of how method statements work, why they matter, and how they support legal compliance in the UK. The main thing is we all want to be safe, and protecting our staff and the public is key to getting the job done right. Safety first for sure, the work to a competent person is then plain sailing.
What Is a Method Statement?
A method statement is a short, written explanation of how a task will be carried out safely and efficiently.
It covers:
- What work is being done
- Who’s doing it
- What risks are involved
- What controls are in place
- What steps will be followed to stay safe
It’s not a detailed instruction manual or technical guide. The purpose is to relay the safety elements, not every single nut and bolt. It assumes the people carrying out the work are competent and trained, and it focuses on planning, communication, and safety.
How It Differs from a Risk Assessment
This is a common question, and an important one.
- A risk assessment looks at what could go wrong (the hazards), who could be affected, and how likely it is to happen.
- A method statement explains how the task will be carried out in a safe and controlled way, putting the risk assessment into action.
The risk assessment identifies the potential dangers — the method statement lays out the safe plan to control them and complete the job.
The two documents should always complement each other, especially when it comes to things like PPE, control measures, and site conditions.
Understanding the Law: Why Method Statements Help You Stay Compliant
In the UK, health and safety is supported by legislation that places duties on employers, contractors, and site managers to keep people safe. While method statements themselves are not always a strict legal requirement, they are a practical way to demonstrate compliance, and are often requested as part of project documentation.
Here are the main pieces of legislation you should know:
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
This is the backbone of UK health and safety law. It requires employers to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees and anyone else who could be affected by their work.
Why it matters: If something goes wrong, this Act is the foundation — and a clear method statement helps prove you planned the work safely.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
These regulations require employers to:
- Carry out risk assessments
- Plan and manage safety measures
- Ensure workers are competent and trained
Why it matters: A method statement shows exactly how you’re applying those safety measures in real terms.
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)
These apply to all construction and related works. Under CDM, principal contractors are required to ensure that tasks are planned, risks are managed, and workers are properly briefed.
Why it matters: On many UK sites, a method statement is a standard part of the Construction Phase Plan, especially when subcontractors are involved.
A Note on Detail: Keep It Simple and Trust in Competence
One of the biggest mistakes people make with method statements is trying to explain too much.
You don’t need to write a training manual. If a qualified electrician is installing equipment, for example, you don’t need to explain how to wire each component. That’s their job.
Instead, focus on:
- How the task is being made safe
- What the potential risks are
- How those risks are controlled
- Any steps or sequences that affect safety
“A method statement should support competent workers — not try to replace them.”
Too much detail can confuse, distract, or even encourage people to skip reading the document altogether. Keep it readable. Keep it relevant.
What a Good Method Statement Include
While layouts may vary depending on the company or task, a clear and effective method statement will usually include the following:
✅ Basic Project Information
- Job title and location
- Company carrying out the work
- Author, date, and version number
✅ Description of the Task
- What the job involves
- Where and when it’s taking place
- Any special site considerations
✅ Hazards and Risk Controls
- A summary of key hazards
- How each risk is being controlled
- PPE requirements (linked to the risk assessment)
✅ Tools, Equipment, and PPE
- What tools and machinery will be used
- What PPE is required, when, and why
- Reference to inspection or maintenance procedures
✅ Step-by-Step Work Method
- A logical breakdown of the task
- Only the steps relevant to safety or coordination
- Notes on permits, isolation, access, or team roles
✅ Emergency Information
- What to do if something goes wrong
- Location of first aid and fire exits
- Emergency contacts
✅ Roles and Responsibilities
- Who is supervising the work
- Who is responsible for safety on site
- Confirmation that workers have been briefed
How Method Statements and Risk Assessments Work Together
Think of it like this:
- The risk assessment says: “This is what could go wrong, and here’s how we’ll prevent it.”
- The method statement says: “Here’s how we’re going to carry out the work in line with that risk assessment.”
They should match — especially when it comes to:
- PPE
- Permit requirements
- Isolation procedures
- Access and work-at-height controls
Used together, they paint a complete picture of safe planning, safe systems of work, and legal compliance.
Best Practice for Writing (and Reading) Method Statements in 2025
✅ Be proportionate – More complex or high-risk jobs need more detail; small jobs don’t
✅ Write clearly – Use short sentences, bullet points, and headings
✅ Make it site-specific – Generic copy-and-paste won’t stand up to inspection
✅ Work with your team – Get input from those doing the job
✅ Update when things change – New risks, new tools, or new site conditions
✅ Use digital tools – Cloud storage, version control, and easy access
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
❌ Writing method statements that are too long or too technical
❌ Failing to coordinate with the actual risk assessment
❌ Forgetting site-specific risks
❌ Including so much detail that nobody reads it
❌ Assuming method statements are just a “tick-box”
Wrapping It Up: Planning for Safety, Not Just Paperwork
At their best, method statements are simple, clear documents that make work safer, better planned, and more professional. They support teams in doing their jobs with confidence — and they show that your organisation takes health and safety seriously.
“If your method statement makes things clearer and safer, it’s doing its job.”
So whether you’re writing one, reviewing one, or just learning about the process, focus on clarity, practicality, and proportionality. That’s what really matters.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this site is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulations or standards. Legislation, industry guidelines, and best practices can change over time, and it is the user’s responsibility to research and ensure compliance with the latest requirements for their specific situation. Always consult a qualified professional for advice tailored to your project or application.