Generic Risk Assessment + Method Statement For Office Interior Strip Out Work

Scope of Document

This generic assessment highlights common risks and potential mitigations associated with the strip out and deconstruction of an office interior.

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 heavy or awkward objects can cause musculoskeletal injuries.

    • Mitigation: Use appropriate lifting techniques, mechanical aids (e.g., trolleys) and team lifting for heavy items. Provide manual handling training to workers.

  2. Falling Objects

    • Risk: Objects falling from height can cause injury or damage.

    • Mitigation: Ensure safe storage of materials, use barriers where necessary and communicate clearly with all workers about areas with overhead work.

  3. Working at Height

    • Risk: Falls from ladders, towers or other elevated areas.

    • Mitigation: Use appropriate fall protection (e.g., guardrails, safety harnesses), inspect equipment before use and ensure workers are trained in working at height.

  4. Electrical Hazards

    • Risk: Contact with live electrical wires can cause shock or burns.

    • Mitigation: Ensure that all electrical work is done by qualified personnel. Turn off power in areas where work is being conducted.

  5. Dust and Air Quality

    • Risk: Dust from demolition can cause respiratory issues.

    • Mitigation: Use dust control measures (e.g., dust extraction, wet methods), provide respiratory protection to workers and ensure proper ventilation.

  6. Noise Exposure

    • Risk: Loud noises from tools or equipment can cause hearing damage.

    • Mitigation: Provide hearing protection, use noise barriers and limit exposure to loud noise.

  7. Chemical Hazards

    • Risk: Exposure to hazardous chemicals (e.g., asbestos, lead-based paint).

    • Mitigation: Conduct a thorough survey for hazardous materials before work begins. Ensure all relevant protocols are observed. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure proper disposal of hazardous materials.

  8. Trips and Falls

    • Risk: Uneven surfaces, cables or debris can cause tripping.

    • Mitigation: Keep work areas clean and organised. Use cable management systems and clearly mark hazardous areas.

Method Statement

  1. Preparation

    • Review project plans and scope.

    • Identify all required permits and obtain them.

    • Conduct a pre-work safety meeting to discuss hazards and safety protocols.

    • Inspect the site for pre-existing hazards.

  2. Site Setup

    • Establish a designated storage area for equipment and materials.

    • Set up barriers and signage to delineate work areas and restrict access to authorised personnel only.

    • Ensure emergency exits are clear and accessible.

  3. Strip Out and Deconstruction

    • Use appropriate tools and equipment for deconstruction tasks.

    • Follow safety protocols, including wearing PPE, to prevent injury.

    • Properly store and dispose of waste materials, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

  4. Cleaning and Inspection

    • Clean up debris and waste materials as work progresses to minimise trip hazards.

    • Inspect the work area regularly to identify and address any new risks or hazards.

    • Conduct a post-work safety meeting to discuss any issues and plan for future work.

  5. Communication and Reporting

    • Maintain clear communication with the project team, including regular safety briefings.

    • Report any incidents or near-misses to the designated safety officer, or other appointed person.

    • Keep a record of safety incidents and the corrective actions taken.

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.

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

    • Conduct a post-emergency review to identify the cause and prevent future incidents.

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.