Generic Risk Assessment + Method Statement For Supply, Delivery And Installation Of Office Interior Decorations

Scope of Document

This generic assessment highlights common risks and potential mitigations associated with the supply, delivery and installation of decorations in office interiors. This includes paint, wallpaper, wall art, signage, indoor plants and other decorative elements.

Risk assessment and method statement documents must always be tailored to site and scope specific conditions and, therefore, this document must be developed in order to be suitable for use on a project.

Potential Risks and Hazards

  1. Manual Handling

    • Risk: Lifting and carrying heavy decorative items, such as artwork, mirrors or plants, can cause musculoskeletal injuries.

    • Mitigation: Use proper lifting techniques, mechanical aids and team lifting where necessary. Provide manual handling training for workers.

  2. Working at Height

    • Risk: Falls from ladders, scaffolding or elevated platforms during installation of high wall decorations, lighting or drapery.

    • Mitigation: Use appropriate fall protection equipment (e.g., harnesses, guardrails), ensure ladders and scaffolding are stable and follow safe practices for working at height.

  3. Electrical Hazards

    • Risk: Contact with live electrical components during the installation of light fixtures or electrical decorations.

    • Mitigation: Ensure power is turned off and use lockout/tagout procedures where required. Only qualified personnel should handle electrical work. Test circuits before starting work.

  4. Exposure to Chemicals

    • Risk: Exposure to paint fumes, adhesives or cleaning agents can cause respiratory issues or skin irritation.

    • Mitigation: Ensure proper ventilation, use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety data sheets (SDS) for chemical handling. Use low-VOC products when possible.

  5. Slips, Trips, and Falls

    • Risk: Debris, tools or other materials on the floor can create trip hazards.

    • Mitigation: Keep work areas clean and organised, use cable management systems and ensure clear pathways. Clean up spills promptly.

  6. Fire Risk

    • Risk: Use of hot tools, electrical sparks or combustible materials can increase fire risk during decoration installation.

    • Mitigation: Ensure fire extinguishers are accessible, avoid open flames and follow fire safety protocols. Properly manage waste and debris to reduce fire risk.

  7. Noise Exposure

    • Risk: Noise from power tools used during decoration installation can cause hearing damage.

    • Mitigation: Provide hearing protection, limit exposure to loud noise and use quieter equipment where possible.

Method Statement

  1. Preparation

    • Review project plans and scope of work. Ensure compliance with safety and building regulations.

    • Obtain all necessary permits and approvals before starting work.

    • Conduct a pre-work safety meeting to discuss hazards and safety protocols. Review emergency procedures and evacuation plans.

  2. Site Setup

    • Establish designated areas for staging materials and equipment.

    • Install safety barriers and signage to control access to work areas.

    • Inspect the site to identify and address any pre-existing hazards, such as unstable structures or hazardous materials.

  3. Delivery of Materials

    • Coordinate with suppliers to ensure safe and timely delivery of decoration materials.

    • Ensure unloading is done in a controlled manner, using mechanical aids where needed.

    • Store materials securely to prevent damage or unauthorized access.

  4. Installation of Office Interior Decorations

    • Follow project plans for the installation of decorations. Use appropriate tools and safety equipment.

    • Ensure proper fall protection when working at height, such as installing wall art or ceiling decorations.

    • Follow safety guidelines for electrical work, ensuring proper insulation and grounding.

    • Use PPE to protect against chemical exposure, such as from paint or adhesives. Ensure proper ventilation during application.

    • Keep work areas tidy and ensure waste and debris are properly disposed of.

  5. Inspection and Cleanup

    • Inspect the completed installation to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

    • Clean up the work area and properly dispose of any waste or debris.

    • Conduct a post-work safety meeting to discuss any issues or lessons learned.

Emergency Procedures

  1. Emergency Contacts

    • Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical facilities and the project's safety officer.

  2. Emergency Response

    • In case of an emergency, follow the designated evacuation plan. Ensure emergency exits are clear and accessible.

    • Provide first aid to injured workers and contact emergency services if needed.

    • Conduct a post-emergency review to understand the causes and implement corrective actions.

This generic document contains common risks and potential mitigations for the type of work detailed.

Risk assessment and method statement documents must always be tailored to site and scope specific conditions and, therefore, this document must be developed in order to be suitable for use on a project.

This document was last reviewed 1st May 2024.