MODEL METHOD STATEMENT

[Project Title]
[Site Address]
[Site Address]
[Site Address]
[Site Address]
[Site Address]

Our Contract Reference: ??? Prepared by:: ???? dd/mm/yyyy

1. The purpose of this Method Statement is to ensure as far as is reasonably practical, the health, safety and welfare of our operatives and any
other party with whom we may come into contact during the contract period.
1.1. It describes the works to be carried out, the specification of the key materials, their mode of installation on site, the likely duration of the
works, and names the parties responsible for the management of the works.
1.2. It should highlight to the reader in advance of the works any potential dangers, obstacles, hazards or other implications.
2. Note - specification and timing is included for information purposes only and does not form part of any contractual arrangements.
3. This Method Statement is prepared for the named project only, and to be read in conjunction with the accompanying site-specific Risk
Assessment.
3.1. Together these two documents reflect the safe systems of working that we intend to adopt on this particular project.
4. This Method Statement will be explained to all site personnel who are engaged in the management and execution of the works prior to work
commencing.
4.1. All personnel should sign at its base to confirm that they have understood its contents and agree to comply with its directions.

5. KEY PERSONNEL/CHAIN OF COMMAND:

5.1. ??? [Managing Director/Nominated Safety Officer] is the named party with overall responsibility for all activities and operations of the
company [Tel: ???].
5.2. ??? [Working Foreman] will be responsible for the management of the installation of the fencing works on site. He will be accompanied
by up to three fence Installers, who will also be suitably experienced in the task in hand.
5.3. The company is also advised and supported by external retained safety consultants i.e. Association of Fencing Industries.
5.3.1. All personnel can call 0208 253 4516 for specific advice or guidance at any time.
5.4. All personnel will be competent in the safe and correct use of all plant and equipment to be used, including protective measures, e.g.
PPE.
5.5. All personnel, whatever their rank, may stop work [and refer to their supervisor] in the event of any current or likely unsafe occurrence.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 1 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

6. SCOPE OF WORKS to BS1722:Fences unless so stated to the contrary:
6.1. [Describe the extent, location and nature of the works]

6.2. This document refers to the works involved in the supply and installation of new fencing and gates at ???

6.3. Product Specification/Description:

6.4. [Describe the Key Components and their specification, dimensions, weight and handling arrangements]

6.5. The specification is included for information purposes only [and does not form part of any contractual arrangements].

7. Project Duration:
7.1. It is anticipated that these works will take up to […] working weeks [uninterrupted] to complete.
7.1.1. NOTE: Timing is given for information purposes only [and is not part of any contractual arrangements].

8. STAGES OF INSTALLATION:
8.1. Establishment: the fence-line, working area, access, storage and distribution and site-specifics are agreed.
8.2. Preparation: clearing, levelling, cutting & or filling of the ground along the fence-line and/or removal of any existing fencing [where
required/specified].
8.3. Setting-out: the fence line and fence post/gate positions are marked out.
8.4. Excavation: the fence post holes are dug out at their correct positions, widths and depths.
8.5. Posts: the fence-posts are dug out and surrounded with concrete.
8.6. Fabric: the mesh panels [or palisade pales] are attached to the supporting framework.
8.7. Barbed wire: the barbed wire topping is attached.
8.8. Kick-Boards/Gravel boards: if required, lower timber kickboards are attached over the mesh or other cladding.
8.9. Gates: the gates are installed [although generally as the above work proceeds].
8.10. Finishing: all fixtures/fittings tightened up; any surface damage touched-up; the site cleared of any debris; and excavated spoil neatly
spread/removed.
8.11. Note – the work will not necessarily be undertaken strictly in the above sequence and it is probable that the entire fence line will be sub-
divided in to individual ‘runs’, between end points, changes in direction/level, etc.
8.11.1. Typically, each run of fencing will be set-out, dug-out, posted and clad, before repeating the sequence along the next run, until all
runs have been completed.
8.11.2. Gates are generally installed as the work proceeds along their respective run.

The above stages are described as follows:

9. Establishment:
9.1. Meet the person responsible for the site where we will be working.
9.1.1. Explain the nature, extent, location and timing of the work to be carried out.
9.2. Undertake a site induction [if required] and/or otherwise familiarise yourself with the particular nature of the premises to be fenced, e.g.
hazards, exit/entry points, no-go areas, security, passes, signing in/out, deliveries, working hours, noise etc.
9.3. The exact position of all new end-posts, gates, changes in direction/level or other interruptions in the fence line are established and
agreed.
9.4. The storage area, unloading and means/routes of distribution are agreed.
9.5. The arrangements for the disposal of waste materials are agreed, e.g. on-site skip.
9.6. Cordon off and highlight the working area, or otherwise establish a safe mechanism for separating the client’s staff, occupants, visitors,
and the general public from the working area.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 2 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

10. Preparation - removal of existing fencing [concrete post & chain link fencing]:
10.1. Removal to take place as the new work proceeds, so as to maintain an unbroken boundary fence at the end of each day.
10.1.1. Note – this usually involves temporarily re-tying the original mesh to the new posts but will not offer the same level of security as
the original fence line until the new works are completed and made permanent.
10.2. Ensure a clear working area, approx one metre inside the fence-line and three metres outside, clear from personnel or property that may
be affected by this operation – area if considered necessary, use temporary fencing, bunting, or other means of identifying the working.
10.3. Slacken the winders at each straining post to slacken off the strained line wires that support and hold the mesh in place.
10.4. Release the nuts securing the mesh’s stretcher bar at straining posts thus allowing the tension in the mesh to be released.
10.5. Cut the horizontal straining/line wires allowing the mesh to fall away from the posts to the ground prior to disposal in adjacent skip
[customer provided].
10.6. Whilst wearing hand, head and eye protection, release the tension in the rows of barbed wire by unfastening the eyebolts or winders and
cut the ties which attach the barbed wire rows to each intermediate post, and allow the wire to fall to the ground on top of the old fencing
mesh waste skip
10.6.1. Cut the barbed wires at each straining post and allow it to fall to the ground in a controlled manner prior to disposal in a similar
manner.
10.7. As demanded by the client and using hand, head and eye protection. either fully remove or
10.7.1. Break the concrete posts off at 75mm below ground level and dispose the post and concrete surround in a similar manner.

11. Setting out:

11.1. Identify and mark [e.g. peg] the start and end of each run of fencing between ends, corners, changes in direction/level, gates or other
interruptions along the fence line.
11.1.1. For strained mesh systems, e.g. chainlink and weldmesh, these will identify the position of each straining post.
11.2. Between straining posts at start/end of each run, set up a temporary string line and measure/mark [with marking spray, crayon or chalk]
the position of each intermediate post hole [typically 3m or less intervals].
11.3. Having set out the fence lines, establish the location of any hidden utility or other services in the immediate vicinity.
11.4. Note – we will use observational evidence derived from any visible pointers to identify the nature and location of any potential hazards.
The customer however, having specific knowledge and historical information to hand, and having ownership of the services themselves,
must take full responsibility for identifying the location and nature of any services associated with the premises - obtaining utility or other
plans in advance and in issuing a permit or other authority to excavate in those areas.
11.4.1. Without such authority the fencing company is liable for any damage.
11.4.2. The use of an electronic sensor is highly recommended.

12. Excavations:
12.1. Post holes are dug out along each fenced run in turn, starting at one end and progressing towards the other until completion.
12.2. Usually, post holes in soft ground will be excavated using a mechanical auger.
12.2.1. Spoil from the augered hole will be allowed to fall upon the ground around the top of the hole.
12.2.2. In compacted ground the bit will be periodically withdrawn and reverse rotated adjacent the hole to free and deposit the excavated
spoil.
12.3. All other operatives to be kept clear of the auger whilst in use, and the auger immobilised when not in use.
12.4. Auger to be used on level and stable ground only.
12.5. Holes in hard ground [e.g. kerb backing] may require the use of a manually operated hydraulic or compressed air breaker.
12.6. Stony ground, or in the likely presence of services, will be excavated using hand tools only, e.g. grafter.
12.7. Post hole spoil will remain on site and be neatly spread in the vicinity of each hole [and used to back fill any gaps beneath the fence-line
due to uneven ground].

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 3 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

13. Posts:
13.1. Posts to be distributed on site via. a flat-bed pickup or trailer, carried manually to their intended location and deposited within their
previously excavated holes.
13.1.1. Heavy loads to be shared between two or more operatives [who are of similar height and build].
13.2. Care to be taken whilst carrying the post so as not to accidentally knock any person/object with the overhanging post length.
13.3. All operatives have been instructed in correct manual handling techniques [and correct use of PPE].
13.4. Mix and/or transport ready mixed concrete to the side of the post hole [typically by wheelbarrow or on the bed of the pickup].
13.5. One operative to manually support the post vertically and in its correct position within the excavated hole.
13.6. The other to place concrete around the post within the hole, whilst his colleague maintains the support of the post, and checks/adjusts
periodically for line and level.
13.7. The post hole is to be filled for at least half its depth with well-rammed concrete.
13.8. Post foundations in earth or natural ground to be back-filled to ground level with previously excavated material.
13.8.1. Foundations in hard ground, e.g. tarmac/concrete, to be reinstated to ground level with hand-trowelled concrete.
13.9. Attach a string line between Strainers/Mains along each run to identify the finished ground level and line of the fencing.
13.10. As far as the design of the product itself will allow, the top of the fence will attempt to follow the general level of the ground beneath.
13.10.1. A flat top to the fencing may result in small gaps beneath, and conversely an undulating top strictly following the ground may look
unsightly [a balance between appearance and security is usually decided on site].
13.11. Concrete in each intermediate fence post along the run in turn working from one end to the other.
13.12. Posts shall be concreted into the ground to the specified depth, and the posts themselves will be set inline and plumb in their concrete
foundations, and at the correct interval and height [+/- 10mm] above ground.
13.13. For expediency, fence posts may be initially set in position using PostMix and/or rapid-hardening concrete, prior to subsequent backfilling
along the run.
13.14. Concrete will otherwise in the main be delivered to site by an approved local ‘ready mix’ supplier, in batches of up to three cubic metres.
13.15. Mixed ballast and cement will be available on site for hand-mixing where ready mix is unsuitable or unavailable.
13.16. For strained mesh systems, the post foundation concrete will be allowed to harden for at least 24 hours before attaching any cladding.
13.17. Post & panel systems are assembled as the work proceeds, and adjusted/relevelled if necessary prior to the end of each working day
13.18. Post holes excavated through tarmac will generally have a disc-cut square top, and will be reinstated to former tarmac level using sand
and cement.
13.19. Posts landing upon good concrete will be bolted down using flat steel baseplates and suitable expanding/rawl bolts drilled into the
concrete.
13.20. For fence-systems incorporating one or more horizontal rail, the lowest horizontal rail will be attached between the posts as spacers as
the work proceeds.
13.21. In post & panel systems, the fence panel [or the lower panel if a multi-lift system] is loosely attached to each post as the work proceeds as
a spacer.

14. Railing & Cladding [plywood hoarding]:

14.1. For fence-systems incorporating one or more horizontal rail, the lowest hoirizontal rail may be attached between the posts during the
posting process as a stabiliser/spacer as the work proceeds.
14.2. Rails are designed to span two bays, and their starting point offset so as to be staggered, such that each post will ideally benefit from the
support of at least one continuous rail.
14.3. Mark the position of the rails on the post [using felt pen/pencil].
14.4. Carry out and set down the rails along the fence line.
14.5. Rail to be offered up into position by two operatives: one manually maintaining its position, whilst the other attaches it to the face of the
post using a 4” woodscrew and battery-powered screw gun.
14.5.1. Rails attached with two screws to each end and mid point.
14.6. Rail to be cut off whilst in position, by hand using a handsaw, such that it terminates at the posts mid-point, ready for the next rail.
14.6.1. Timber offcuts gathered up at the end of each day and taken to site compound for recycling.
14.7. Repeat until all rails have been attached.
14.8. When the concrete has set, the rigid fence-posts are clad with the plywood panels.
14.9. Carry the plywood to its intended location [two men sharing the load].
14.10. Two operatives lift panel into position one maintaining its correct position whilst the other attaches the plywood to the rail using a 37mm
woodscrew using a battery powered screw gun.
…………………continued
14.11. Plywood board attached using 9 screws [3 per rail]. Screws positions determined ‘by eye’ [they will be painted over once complete].
14.12. Plywood boards will ‘step’ to follow sloping ground conditions, which may give rise to a slight gap in one corner of each panel at ground
level.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 4 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

 14.13. Gaps to be covered by skirting boards.
14.14. The last plywood board in any run will likely be a non-standard width, and will need to be cut down, i.e. width measured and board marked
before being taken to cutting area within the site compound to be cut down using a 110v generator-powered circular saw.
14.15. Repeat until all plywood panels are in place.
14.16. NOTE – 9 boards run down a significant slope beside the steps.
14.16.1. These boards [alone] will be pre-scribed and their tops cut to a matching slope prior to installation.
14.17. Capping and Skirting rails next to be carried and located in their intended position.
14.18. Both to be screwed to boards using woodscrews and screw gun.
14.18.1. Capping and skirting will be set to falls to match the ground profile.

15. Fabric [strained mesh systems]:

15.1. The mesh cladding is supported on horizontal line-wires, which are tensioned between each straining post.
15.1.1. Straining posts require diagonal bracing struts to prevent them being pulled over with the tensioned line-wires.
15.2. Attach a ferrule winder to the welded line wire lugs on each straining post [or place an eyebolt through the line-wire hole if using concrete
or drilled posts].
15.3. Between pairs of straining posts, attach all of the line wires in turn to the winders at each end.
15.3.1. Note, line wires are threaded through pre-drilled holes in each intermediate post.
15.4. Each line wire is tensioned by turning the winder ferrule locking nut [or eyebolt nut] with a spanner until the desired tension is achieved.
15.4.1. Do not over-tighten.
15.5. When all of the line wires are in place and tensioned, each lower roll of mesh is transported to its position along the fence line [typically 25
metre intervals].
15.5.1. Rolls will be either carried between several operatives and/or distributed with mechanical assistance, i.e. pickup or forklift truck.
15.6. Welded mesh is generally decoiled and laid out along the ground, before being loosely recoiled before fixing.
15.7. Mesh rolls are then lifted up into position [in roll form] and gradually decoiled and clipped to their respective line wires as the work
proceeds.
15.7.1. Clips are placed at regular intervals [typically 200mm] and are attached using a hand-held manually-operated clip gun.
15.8. The mesh is cut, stopped and re-started at the end of each run [or straining post].
15.8.1. For longer runs exceeding the roll length [usually 25 metres], mesh rolls are joined by clipping together vertical overlapping joints.
15.9. Mesh above 2.4 metres high is achieved also by horizontally overlapping rolls one above the other.
15.9.1. Upper rows of mesh supported and installed as above, using manned mobile access equipment.
15.10. Cut ends of mesh to be de-burred and touch coated
15.11. A full-height flat steel stretcher bar is attached to the post [via M8 bolts] at the end of each run [or straining post] to secure the cut end of
the mesh.

16. Fabric [steel palisade systems]:

16.1. Carry out/distribute the pales and upper rails, and deposit them next to each bay [17 pales per bay] along the fence line.
16.2. Install the upper horizontal rail between all of the posts along the section, placing them between posts in the slots.
16.3. Tighten the bolts and snap off the nuts attaching both the upper and lower horizontal rails to the posts.
16.4. Attach and secure two pales - the 6th and 12th [out of 17] - to both the upper and lower rail in each bay, including a lower rail support leg
[if specified], ensuring that the rails are straight between posts and do not sag.
16.4.1. Pales are attached to each rail using M8 saddle-head bolts with snap-off nuts [or 6 or 8mm rivets and if using bolts and snap-off
nuts, attach all of the pales to the rails leaving the nuts loosely attached and, when finished, tighten and snap off all of the nuts
16.4.1.1. If using rivets, attach pales as you go along from one end to the other, doing first all of the rivet fastenings in the top rail
and then all rivets of the bottom rail.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 5 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

17. Fabric [mesh panel system]:
17.1. When the concrete has set, the rigid fence-posts are clad with the remaining mesh panels.
17.2. Transport the mesh panel to its intended location, ideally on the back of the pickup, or manually carried [two men sharing heavy loads].
17.3. Lift panels onto the U-shaped panel-mounting brackets on the face of each post, loosely apply flat clamp bar, and tighten security bolts to
clamp the panels in position [using a battery powered impact wrench].
17.4. Fully tighten security bolts [using battery-powered screw gun and bit] to clamp stretcher bar onto panel and secure in place.
17.5. Alternatively: Lift each panel vertically on the face of each post and temporarily clamp in position using mole grips.
17.6. Alternatively: Lift adjacent panel in position, overlap on face of post, and attach clamp bar and through bolts.
17.6.1. Bolts secured with snap-of nuts tightened using a battery powered impact wrench.
17.7. The last panel at the end of any particular run of fencing is likely to need to be cut down to size.
17.7.1. This will be achieved using either a petrol-powered cut-off saw, or a 110v 9” angle grinder [powered by portable generator].
17.8. Any exposed cut ends of mesh to be deburred and touched up, hidden/shrouded ends need not be so treated.
17.8.1. Repeat until all lower panels are in place.
17.9. Fences whose height exceeds two metres are made up of a series of multi-lifts of two metre or smaller height panels, one mounted above
the other, e.g. a three metre fence has a one metre panel mounted above a lower two metre panel.
17.10. If a multi-lift panel system, repeat the above process with the upper panels. Note, this will require the use of a mobile access platform [see
below].

18. Fabric [mesh roll system]:

18.1. Mesh rolls are attached to tightly strained line wires [or straining wires] using stainless steel fencing clips.
18.2. Ratchet winders are attached by hand to the straining wire lugs welded onto each Straining Post using M8 bolts and nuts.
18.3. Line wire rolls are carried to their intended location by hand.
18.4. Line wire is attached to the ratchet winder at one end of each run, and threaded through the drilled line wire holes on each intermediate
post before being made off and tightenend using the ratchet winder at the end of each run.
18.4.1. This process is repeated for all line wires to all runs until complete.
18.5. Mesh rolls to be distributed to their intended location via. flatbed trailer or pickup.
18.6. Heavy loads to be shared between two or more operatives [of similar height and build].
18.7. Working run by run, the mesh rolls are stood upright adjacent to the fence line starting at one end, and clipped to the first straining post.
18.7.1. The mesh is gradually unwound along the ground [maintaining its vertical roll form] by one operative whilst the other comes behind
and attaches the mesh to the line wires with stainless steel fencing clips [using a compressed air clip gun and compressor].
18.8. Mobile platform used for access top of fence: where the fence-line is accessible by vehicle,
18.8.1. It is customary to use the flat bed of the pickup truck [whilst stationary] to stand upon in order to gain the 600mm or so additional
height needed to reach the top of the fence-line.
18.9. Alternatively if this is deemed unsafe, e.g. undulating/soft ground or other obstacle, use a small aluminium step-up platform with a one
metre platform, access steps and side/hand rails.
18.10. Mesh rolls are typically 25 metres in length and will need to be joined insitu, i.e. vertical ends overlapped and clipped together] on the
fence itself.
18.11. At the end of every run between ends, corners and changes in level/direction, the mesh is clamped to the straining post using a flat steel
clamp-bar.
19. Barbed wire:
19.1. Ratchet winders are attached by hand to the barbed wire straining wire lugs welded onto each straining post cranked extension using M8
bolts and nuts.
19.1.1. Stationary platform used for access to barb lugs.
19.2. Barbed wire rolls are carried to their intended location by hand.
19.3. Barbed wire is attached to the ratchet winders at each end of each run, made off and tightened.
19.4. Barbed wire is attached to the intermediate fence posts using stirrup wire, hand cut and twisted in situ.
19.5. This process is repeated for all barbed wires to all runs until complete.
19.6. Mobile platform used for access top of fence.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 6 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

20. Kick/Gravel boards:
20.1. Timber kickboards are distributed around the site near their intended location.
20.2. Boards are offered up into position against the lower mesh panel on each post [typically 20mm above avg. ground level], and bolted to the
panel itself, either side of each post or gate-frame, using holed flat steel brackets and through bolts.
20.3. Bolts are drilled and pushed through the fence panels and drilled boards, and tightened up [with battery powered impact wrench] or hand
ratchet.
20.4. Two staples [per bay] are nailed into the rear of the boards, holding the bottom of the boards against the fence between posts.

21. Gates:
21.1. Gates are typically installed in their position simultaneously with the fencing along each run.
21.2. Gate posts are marked and dug out, of a suitable width and depth to support the gate leaves themselves [typically 400-500mm square by
800-1000mm deep].
21.3. Gate post holes will likely also be hand-dug as above described, although very large foundations [exceeding 1 m3] may require the use of
a mini-digger.
21.4. Transport the first gate post within its hole, and temporarily support in its position, at its correct height and plumb [NB – heavy gates may
require posts to be deliberately set slightly out of plumb, as they may bend slightly under the weight of the gate leaf].
21.5. Ensure hanging lugs and fence-attachment fittings are oriented correctly.
21.6. Deposit semi-dry concrete around the post, ensuring that it is well-rammed as the filling proceeds, and constantly checking and adjusting
for line/level as required.
21.7. Gate post concrete foundations typically filled to ground level with concrete.
21.8. Similarly transport and concrete-in the second gate post, ensuring the width between both posts, their line and height is correct [gate
leaves will be installed strictly horizontally, even if ground is sloping].
21.9. Allow the concrete to cure before attaching the gate leaves.
21.10. Transport the gate leaf to its respective post. Loosely attach the gate hinge hanging eyebolts to the frame.
21.10.1. Lift and temporarily support the bottom corner [nearest the post] of the gate leaf to its correct height [typically 50mm], e.g. using a
timber block.
21.10.2. Attach the upper and lower gate-hinge hanging eyebolt to the gate-post hanging lug/pin.
21.10.3. Adjust/tighten the gate hinge eyebolts, gradually pulling the leaf into position, square and self-supporting.
21.10.4. When in position, fully tighten the eyebolts to secure in place.
21.11. If a double-leaf gate, when both leaves are correctly hung and adjusted [so that the latching arrangement lines up etc], drill hole for drop-
bolt sockets and insert steel tube guides.

22. Finishing:
22.1. It is customary, unless the fence line is turfed or landscaped, for any excavated spoil to be neatly spread over the ground in the vicinity of
each hole.
22.1.1. Any solid large items excavated, i.e. bricks etc., will normally be picked up and removed to the on site skip [or from site if none].
22.2. Unless specifically agreed, the erection of the fence will not include clearing, cutting or filling of the ground, nor the disposal of excavated
spoil and/or arising off site.
22.3. Finally the fence-line is inspected, touched-up, and all packaging/debris removed before handover:
22.4. Our operatives will fill in our standard site completion/handover checklist, acting as both an aide memoir and record that everything has
been completed to the correct standard.
22.5. Finally the customer is asked to inspect the works, assessing the work against the checklist and, if satisfied, formally signing the work off
as complete for payment [or otherwise noting any remedial work to be completed before sign-off].
22.6. The office is notified to prepare and submit an Operations & Maintenance Manual [where required/relevant].

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 7 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

23. Types of mechanical plant & equipment used:

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 8 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

 23.1. Commercial Van and/or Pickup Truck 23.11. Skidsteer & Auger Attachment
23.2. 110 V Generator [Petrol] 23.12. Mini-Excavator
23.3. Cut-off Saw [Petrol] 23.13. Cement Mixer
23.4. Hammer Drill [110v] 23.14. Impact Wench/Screw-Gun [Battery]
23.5. Steel Drill [110v] 23.15. Hedge Trimmer/Brush Cutter [Petrol]
23.6. 9 & 4 ½” Grinders [110v] 23.16. Circular Saw [110v]
23.7. Hydraulic Breaker [Petrol] 23.17. Telehandler/Forklift
23.8. Air Compressor 23.18. Mobile Access Tower
23.9. Skip Loader 23.19. Scissor Lift
23.10. Dumper 23.20. Cherry Picker

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 9 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

 23.21. Operation and movement of plant shall be carried out by competent personnel only, and wearing all necessary PPE.
The use of all mechanical plant and equipment, particularly those which are noisy or vibrate, is to be shared amongst the competent
members of the workforce in order to avoid harm through repetition, e.g. constant vibration causing the ‘white finger’ condition.
23.22. All equipment to be inspected and confirmed in good working order prior to use. Fuels to be stored correctly and precautions taken to
avoid spillages, particularly during fuelling.

24. Working at Height:

24.1. Fencing above 3 metres in height will require the use of a small mobile access platform, i.e. scaffold tower.
24.2. All mobile access platforms are hired in, and fully inspected before and after every use by the supplier.
24.3. Nevertheless, all equipment is appropriately inspected before use on every separate occasion by our own in-house PASMA-trained
operatives.
24.4. Never work in adverse weather conditions.
24.5. Ensure working area is safe and free from all obstructions.
24.6. Unauthorised personnel to be kept apart from the working area.
24.7. Ladders above 500mm [step-up] used only for access, and not for work activities.
24.8. Fall Arresters to be used if required.
24.9. Hard Hats or Bump caps to be worn by personnel working in the vicinity of the platform.

25. Welfare:
25.1. Personnel not to use clients own facilities.
25.2. Serviced Portaloo to be provided with hand washing facility.
25.3. Lockable steel container to be provided.
25.4. Drinking water, food and consumables stored in vehicle and/or locked container.
25.5. Hands to be washed prior to eating.
25.6. Food and other waste disposed of in on site skip or removed from site.

26. Excavation:
26.1. The client is responsible for the identification of any utility, electrical/data cables, ducts, pipes, voids and other services in the vicinity of
the fence-line, and any Statutory Notifications relevant to these works, e.g. planning consent, notification to HSE or Local Authority as
required.
26.2. Obtain utility/service drawings of site area.
26.3. Obtain local knowledge of past works and existing services.
26.4. Undertake careful visual inspection of the area around the fence-line, e.g. lamp-posts, manholes, cable trays, ducts, tarmac patches,
telecoms boxes/masts, transformer compounds, etc, all serve to indicate the likely presence of hidden services.
26.5. Ensure that the fence line has been CAT scanned, and any detected services clearly marked.
26.6. Always take care whilst digging, regardless of whether a buried service has been identified.
26.7. Obtain a permit/permission to dig from the Client/Site Manager.
26.8. Excavate using manual hand tools only where there is a lack of clear information, or any doubt.
26.9. A fence-post or suitable marker will be placed into any exposed holes remaining at the end of the working day so as not to form a trip
hazard.
26.10. Note – fence-post and gate foundations rarely exceed 800mm below finished ground level, and never exceed 1.2 metres.

27. PPE/COSHH:
27.1. All employees will be provided, as a matter of course, with all necessary PPE, e.g. safety boots, hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, ear
protectors, overalls and wet weather gear.
27.2. PPE appropriate to the task being carried out must be worn at all times.
27.3. Given that there is little risk of falling objects in the vicinity of our works, if site rules permit, we will use by default proprietary Bump Caps
rather than Hard Hats [although the latter are available and will be used if insisted upon].
27.4. Similarly glasses and/or earplugs are only worn if undertaking an abrasive process.
27.5. All employees are made aware of the COSHH requirements, with respect to storage, handling, protection and use, of any materials with
which they are likely to come into contact [typically only concrete/cement and petrol/diesel].
27.6. COSHH data sheets are freely available for inspection/reference at our offices.

28. Site Access/Egress:

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 10 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

 28.1. Access/egress to/from the site will be via. [cite road name or other specific and/or] designated routes, and only following the granting of
permission and/or following the attendance of any safety or other required induction programme.
28.2. The entry of unauthorised persons to the working area will be strictly prohibited.
28.3. The client is responsible for notifying their employees, occupants, visitors and neighbours of the intended works, and to take reasonable
steps to separate their own activities from the working area for the duration of the works.
28.4. Emergency access will be gained via the above named route [name road/route].
28.5. [Works to be carried out within the client’s own fenced site enclosure, thus separated from any external parties.]
28.6. Client may need to take steps to prevent members of the public from from parking cars in the vicinity of the works.~

29. Storage/Distribution of Materials:

29.1. The client is responsible for the provision of a specially designated area of safe storage, and for making the working area available and
accessible for the duration of the works. Note the working area must include access to both sides of the fence-line.
29.2. Waste materials to be removed to the site compound for disposal or recycling.
29.3. Good housekeeping to be observed at all times, and all waste/rubbish to be regularly deposited in on-site skips and/or taken to licensed
external tips.

30. Protection of the Works:

30.1. During the course of the day, materials will be stored and distributed in a workmanlike manner so as not to cause undue obstruction or
hazard.
30.2. At the end of each day surplus materials will be either removed from the working area to safe storage, or left insitu in a safe condition.
30.3. Temporary sheet-metal Heras-style fence panels [client-provided] to be installed along fence-lines adjacent to public/parking, to both
separate the working area, and mitigate the effects of noise and dust.

31. Control of Suppliers/Supplies:

31.1. Each contract is given its own unique Contract Number, in this case [TBA]. All materials purchased and all collections/deliveries will be
identified by this same number.
31.2. Materials will only be purchased from the company’s Approved Supplier List. Approved Suppliers are vetted and monitored.
31.3. Supplier Certificates relating to quality, the environment, or any statutory requirement to be kept with the contract file.

32. Communication:
32.1. This Method Statement is to be read and explained to all of our own team members attending site before work commences. Any
variations to this Method Statement must be authorised by the responsible person.
32.2. In addition, this Method Statement to be read by and given due consideration by our client […], their ultimate client[…] and the relevant
Local Authority.

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 11 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©

 33. DECLARATION OF UNDERSTANDING AND COMPLIANCE:
The signatories below confirm that the above method statement has been explained, and that they fully understand its contents and agree to
comply with its directions:

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

Signed ….………………………..…………. Print ……...…..………………………… Date …………………

34. Notes:

[NOTE – AFI makes available a number of business documents, policies and templates to assist members in the development of their
own company-specific versions. These templates are not to be used verbatim; rather they must be reviewed and amended to suit the
members’ own and statutory requirements relevant at the time. AFI cannot be responsible for the use or misuse of these templates]

Model Method statement rev.2 Page 12 of 10 Association of Fencing Industries ©