What is a RAMS and How Does It Differ from a Risk Assessment?

Understand the difference between RAMS and risk assessments, and see how Work Wallet’s RAMS software streamlines your safety processes from planning to execution.

When it comes to health and safety, the terms "risk assessment" and "RAMS" are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. While both are essential parts of safe working practices, understanding the difference between them is important for building a strong safety management system.

In this guide, we explain what RAMS is, how it differs from a standard risk assessment, and how using RAMS software such as Work Wallet can improve how your organisation manages health and safety.

What is a RAMS?

RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement. It is a detailed document that combines a traditional risk assessment with a clear method statement, outlining exactly how a job or task will be carried out safely.

A RAMS typically includes:

• A description of the task or activity
• Identified hazards and the risks associated with them
• Control measures to reduce or eliminate risks
• A step-by-step guide on how to carry out the work safely
• Roles and responsibilities of team members
• Emergency procedures

The purpose of a RAMS is not only to highlight potential dangers but to give employees clear instructions and confidence in how to complete the work safely.

How Does a RAMS Differ from a Risk Assessment?

A risk assessment focuses on identifying hazards in the workplace, evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm, and suggesting control measures to reduce risk. It is the foundation of good health and safety planning.

A RAMS document goes further by including:

• A detailed explanation of how the work should be carried out safely
• Clear, step-by-step instructions for the task
• Allocation of responsibilities to specific team members
• Procedures to follow in the event of an emergency

In simple terms, a risk assessment identifies what could go wrong, while a RAMS outlines exactly how to carry out the work safely in light of those risks.

Why Use RAMS Software?

Creating and managing RAMS documents manually can be time-consuming and inconsistent, especially across multiple sites or teams. RAMS software provides a faster, more reliable way to produce and share these critical documents.

With Work Wallet’s RAMS software, you can:

• Generate clear and consistent RAMS documents in minutes
• Use templates tailored to your industry or type of work
• Assign responsibilities and share documents digitally with your team
• Ensure all RAMS documents are easy to access, review, and update
• Maintain a full audit trail for compliance and accountability

Using RAMS software helps make your safety processes more efficient and ensures your workforce always has access to up-to-date safety information.

Why Choose Work Wallet RAMS Software?

Work Wallet is a trusted health and safety software platform used by organisations across construction, logistics, manufacturing and more. The RAMS software module is designed to help you create and manage RAMS documents quickly and easily.

Benefits of using Work Wallet for RAMS include:

• User-friendly tools for creating RAMS documents from desktop or mobile
• Integration with other safety tools, such as audits and site briefings
• Full visibility of safety processes across all sites
• Designed for use in the field with real-time updates
• Digital storage and access to ensure version control and compliance

Whether managing complex high-risk tasks or routine jobs, Work Wallet gives you the tools to ensure your teams are working safely and efficiently.

Ready to Improve Your RAMS Process?

Take control of your safety documentation with Work Wallet’s RAMS software. Save time, stay compliant, and support your teams with clear, practical safety guidance wherever they are working.

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