If you’re working in project management, whether in construction or other high-risk areas, you’ve likely come across RAMS documents. RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement, and these critical documents outline all hazards and risks associated with a project and the measures in place to mitigate them. In this article, we will go over three ways to approach creating a RAMS document, each with its advantages and drawbacks.

Method 1: Traditional paper-based approach

The traditional paper-based approach to RAMS documents is still prevalent, where they are produced manually using word processing software. The relative cost-effectiveness and simplicity of using the document in this way make it a very popular option for many.

Preparing your RAMS document template

The first step in creating a paper-based RAMS document is to establish a template in your preferred word processing software. This template should include section headings and adequate space to write detailed information about each section.

Identifying risks and mitigations

To assist you with identifying the inherent hazards and risks associated with your project, utilise the appropriate information forms developed for such projects. These forms typically outline potential hazards and the necessary steps for mitigating these risks.

Assigning responsibilities and resources

Assigning resources and tasks to staff who will be involved in delivering the project is the next step in the paper-based RAMS document approach. It should be clear who is responsible for maintaining individual measures to manage identified hazards and risks.

Reviewing and updating the RAMS document

Finally, you should review and update your RAMS document regularly, most typically at project milestones, to ensure that it remains relevant and actionable. Also, ensure that all stakeholders are aware of these changes and the identified risks, updates, and measures.

Pros and cons of paper-based RAMS

Pros

• Low upfront cost
• Simple for very small businesses or one-off tasks
• No software setup or training required

Cons

• Time-consuming to create and update
• Harder to review and amend when site conditions change
• Greater risk of using outdated versions
• Difficult to share quickly with multiple teams or contractors
• Can lead to inconsistent formatting and missing information
• Limited version control and audit trail

Method 2: Creating a RAMS document with RAMS software

Using RAMS software is one of the most efficient ways to create and manage a RAMS document, especially for businesses producing them regularly across multiple projects, teams, or sites. Compared with paper-based methods or static templates, a digital approach can make it easier to build consistent documents, keep records organised, and update RAMS when project conditions change.

This is why many businesses are moving towards online RAMS software rather than relying on disconnected files and manual admin. A well-structured system can help teams save time, reduce errors, and manage RAMS more effectively as part of a wider health and safety process.

Choosing the right software for your RAMS document

To start with a digital RAMS document approach, you will need to choose a specialised software solution for creating and managing RAMS documents. Look for features such as customisable templates, automated risk assessment, integrated document management, and reporting.

Collaborative features for team input

One of the main advantages of RAMS software is that it makes collaboration easier. RAMS often need input from supervisors, managers, health and safety leads, and the people carrying out the work. A digital system can make that process smoother by allowing documents to be reviewed, updated, and shared more easily.

This is particularly useful where multiple stakeholders need to contribute to the same RAMS document or where projects move quickly, and updates need to be communicated clearly. Instead of relying on separate email chains or multiple saved versions, teams can work from a more centralised process.

Streamlining the risk assessment process

A digital approach can also improve how risks are identified and managed. Rather than starting from scratch each time, teams can use structured workflows to record hazards, assess risks, and link them to the right control measures within the RAMS document.

This helps make the process more consistent and can reduce the risk of important details being missed. For businesses handling a high volume of RAMS, online RAMS software can also make it easier to standardise how documents are created across different projects or departments.

Tracking changes and version control

Version control is one of the biggest benefits of creating a RAMS document digitally. When RAMS are managed manually, it can be difficult to know which version is current, who made the last update, or whether the latest changes have been shared properly.

With RAMS software, changes are easier to track, and older versions can usually be reviewed when needed. This makes it easier to maintain an accurate audit trail, reduce confusion, and ensure teams are working from the most up-to-date RAMS document.