Generic Risk Assessment + Method Statement For Supply, Delivery And Installation Of Office Furniture, Seating + Storage

Scope of Document

This generic assessment highlights common risks and potential mitigations associated with the supply, delivery and installation of office furniture, seating and storage, including desks, chairs, tables, cabinets and other office furniture.

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 or bulky furniture 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-mounted furniture or storage units.

    • 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. Falling Objects

    • Risk: Tools or furniture components falling from height during installation.

    • Mitigation: Secure tools and materials at height, use tool lanyards and enforce safety zones below work areas.

  4. Slips, Trips, and Falls

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

    • Mitigation: Keep work areas clean and organized, ensure clear pathways and use proper cable management. Clean up debris promptly.

  5. Exposure to Chemicals

    • Risk: Exposure to adhesives, cleaning agents or finishing products used during furniture installation 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 where possible.

  6. Noise Exposure

    • Risk: Noise from power tools used during furniture assembly or installation.

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

  7. Fire Risk

    • Risk: Heat from power tools or electrical sparks during furniture installation can increase fire risk.

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

Method Statement

  1. Preparation

    • Review project plans and scope of work. Ensure compliance with building codes and safety 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 furniture, seating and storage components.

    • 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 Furniture, Seating, and Storage

    • Assemble and install furniture according to project plans and safety regulations. Use appropriate tools and safety equipment.

    • Ensure proper fall protection when working at height, such as when installing high-mounted cabinets or shelving.

    • Follow safety guidelines when using adhesives or other chemicals. Ensure proper ventilation and use appropriate PPE.

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

  5. Inspection and Cleanup

    • Inspect the completed furniture 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.