Trade RAMS template
RAMS for Plumbing & Heating (UK): Free Template + Site-Specific Generator
Plumbing teams manage hot works, pressure testing, and interfaces with water, gas, and drainage systems. A dedicated RAMS controls scalding, flooding, and Legionella risks while coordinating isolations and reinstatements with the client.
Building services (M&E)
phase1
2025-10-01
What you'll brief on site
Align supervisors, evidence compliance, and pre-fill RAMSGen with the core talking points below.
- ✓Confirm valve positions, isolation points, and lock-off arrangements
- ✓Stage fire blankets, extinguishers, and heat guards for hot works
- ✓Verify pressure gauges and test equipment are calibrated
- ✓Check spill kits, absorbents, and wet vacs are ready
- ✓Log test certificates, flushing records, and disinfection results
Key approvals
Hot works permit covering soldering, brazing, or pipe welding, Permit-to-work in risers, tanks, or confined plant rooms, Permit-to-dig where external services or drainage runs are accessed, Water authority notification for mains connections or disinfection
Snapshot hazards
- Hot works and soldering leading to burns or fire
- Uncontrolled water release causing flooding or Legionella aerosols
- Confined working in risers, plant rooms, or ceiling voids
- Exposure to sewage, grey water, or biohazards during maintenance
- Working at height when installing pipework or brackets overhead
Critical controls
- Issue hot works permits with fire watch and spark containment procedures
- Plan isolations, drain downs, and refill sequences with temperature monitoring
- Use forced ventilation and gas detection in risers or plant rooms
- Provide spill containment, disinfectants, and hygiene protocols for foul systems
- Select podiums or MEWPs for overhead work with regular inspections
Permits & references
- Hot works permit covering soldering, brazing, or pipe welding
- Permit-to-work in risers, tanks, or confined plant rooms
- Permit-to-dig where external services or drainage runs are accessed
- Water authority notification for mains connections or disinfection
Implementation walkthrough
Toolbox ready- 1
Survey existing services, valve conditions, and isolation points with the client
- 2
Brief the team on hot works, water hygiene, and interface with other trades
- 3
Set up containment, drip trays, and temporary supplies before cutting in
- 4
Install pipework, valves, and equipment to spec, testing joints as you progress
- 5
Pressure test, chlorinate (if required), recommission, and document results
Template detail
Export ready in RAMSGenWhy Plumbing & Heating RAMS matter
Plumbing teams manage hot works, pressure testing, and interfaces with water, gas, and drainage systems. A dedicated RAMS controls scalding, flooding, and Legionella risks while coordinating isolations and reinstatements with the client.
Common hazards for Plumbing & Heating
- Hot works and soldering leading to burns or fire
- Uncontrolled water release causing flooding or Legionella aerosols
- Confined working in risers, plant rooms, or ceiling voids
- Exposure to sewage, grey water, or biohazards during maintenance
- Working at height when installing pipework or brackets overhead
Typical control measures for Plumbing & Heating
- Issue hot works permits with fire watch and spark containment procedures
- Plan isolations, drain downs, and refill sequences with temperature monitoring
- Use forced ventilation and gas detection in risers or plant rooms
- Provide spill containment, disinfectants, and hygiene protocols for foul systems
- Select podiums or MEWPs for overhead work with regular inspections
Method statement outline
- Survey existing services, valve conditions, and isolation points with the client
- Brief the team on hot works, water hygiene, and interface with other trades
- Set up containment, drip trays, and temporary supplies before cutting in
- Install pipework, valves, and equipment to spec, testing joints as you progress
- Pressure test, chlorinate (if required), recommission, and document results
PPE, training, and permits
PPE essentials
- Heat-resistant gloves and sleeves for soldering and brazing
- Safety goggles or face shields when cutting, threading, or pressure testing
- Waterproof and slip-resistant safety boots
- Respiratory protection where fumes or aerosols are present
Training & competence
- NVQ Level 2/3 Plumbing & Heating or demonstrable equivalent
- Gas Safe registration for gas appliance work
- Hot works and brazing certification with annual refreshers
- Confined space or water hygiene training where systems demand it
Permits & supporting documents
- Hot works permit covering soldering, brazing, or pipe welding
- Permit-to-work in risers, tanks, or confined plant rooms
- Permit-to-dig where external services or drainage runs are accessed
- Water authority notification for mains connections or disinfection
RAMS checklist for Plumbing & Heating
- Confirm valve positions, isolation points, and lock-off arrangements
- Stage fire blankets, extinguishers, and heat guards for hot works
- Verify pressure gauges and test equipment are calibrated
- Check spill kits, absorbents, and wet vacs are ready
- Log test certificates, flushing records, and disinfection results
FAQs: Plumbing & Heating RAMS
Do plumbers need a RAMS even for minor repairs?
Yes. CDM applies to all construction work, and even a valve swap can introduce hot works, Legionella, or flooding risks. A concise RAMS documents isolation steps, PPE, and permits to satisfy the client and insurer.
What hot works controls should plumbing RAMS cover?
Detail spark containment, fire blankets, continuous fire watch, extinguishers, hot works permits, and the post-hot-works monitoring period. Include how adjacent combustible materials are protected or removed.
Do we need a Legionella management plan in the RAMS?
Yes when you are opening, draining, or recommissioning water systems. Reference temperature control, flushing regimes, biocide dosing, and record keeping so the responsible person can sign off.
Generate a site-specific Plumbing & Heating RAMS in minutes
Plumbing & Heating RAMS generator
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
Do plumbers need a RAMS even for minor repairs?
Yes. CDM applies to all construction work, and even a valve swap can introduce hot works, Legionella, or flooding risks. A concise RAMS documents isolation steps, PPE, and permits to satisfy the client and insurer.
What hot works controls should plumbing RAMS cover?
Detail spark containment, fire blankets, continuous fire watch, extinguishers, hot works permits, and the post-hot-works monitoring period. Include how adjacent combustible materials are protected or removed.
Related guidance
Share the following resources alongside your RAMS to reinforce site standards and evidence due diligence.
Build a site-specific RAMS in minutes
Import this template into RAMSGen, tailor the sequencing, and export a branded RAMS pack ready for principal contractor review.