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

Scope of Document

This generic assessment highlights common risks and potential mitigations associated with the supply, delivery and installation of office interior joinery, including cabinetry, shelving, custom woodwork, trim and other wood-based components.

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 awkward joinery components 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 joinery components such as cabinets, shelving, or trim.

    • 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 installation of electrically powered joinery or when working near electrical sources.

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

  4. Falling Objects

    • Risk: Tools or materials falling from height during installation.

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

  5. Slips, Trips, and Falls

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

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

  6. Exposure to Dust and Particles

    • Risk: Sawdust and other particles generated during cutting and shaping of joinery can cause respiratory issues.

    • Mitigation: Use dust extraction systems, provide respiratory protection and ensure proper ventilation. Implement regular cleaning protocols to minimize dust accumulation.

  7. Noise Exposure

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

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

  8. Fire Risk

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

    • 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 joinery 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 Joinery

    • Install joinery components according to project plans and building codes. Use appropriate tools and safety equipment.

    • Follow safety guidelines when cutting and shaping joinery materials. Ensure proper dust extraction and provide respiratory protection.

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

    • Follow electrical safety procedures when connecting any electrically powered joinery components.

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

  5. Inspection and Cleanup

    • Inspect the completed joinery 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.