RAMS vs Risk Assessment
What's the difference, and which one do you actually need? This guide explains when to use each and why most construction work requires RAMS, not just a risk assessment.
Quick answer
- 1RAMS = Risk Assessment + Method Statement combined
- 2A risk assessment only identifies hazards – RAMS also describes HOW to work safely
- 3For construction and trades work, you almost always need RAMS (the combined document)
- 4If someone asks for "RAMS", they want both parts in one document
Side-by-side comparison
Risk Assessment
Identifies hazards and rates the level of risk. Does NOT describe how the work will be carried out.
What it includes:
What it doesn't include:
RAMS
Combined document that identifies hazards AND describes exactly how the work will be done safely.
What it includes:
When to use which
Risk Assessment only (rare)
- Office-based work
- Simple, routine tasks
- Where method is obvious and doesn't need documenting
RAMS (most construction work)
- Any construction or site work
- Work for contractors or commercial clients
- Trades work (electrical, plumbing, etc.)
- Any work with significant hazards
Common questions
Can I submit just a risk assessment instead of RAMS?
Usually not. If a client or contractor asks for RAMS, they expect the combined document. A standalone risk assessment will likely be rejected because it doesn't describe your working method.
Is RAMS a legal requirement?
Risk assessments are a legal requirement under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. While RAMS itself isn't explicitly required by law, it's the standard format expected by principal contractors and is effectively mandatory for most construction work.
What's the difference between a method statement and RAMS?
A method statement describes how work will be done. RAMS combines the method statement WITH a risk assessment in one document. When someone asks for "RAMS", they want both parts together.