Decking Installation Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Site traffic and deliveries — Agree delivery windows; brief a banksman; segregate pedestrians with barriers. Mark reversing routes and keep sightlines clear. Use stable drop-zones. Lift with tele-handlers or MEWPs only if planned and certified. Keep public away with signage and marshals during movements.
• Manual handling of timbers and joists — Plan delivery drop-points close to the workface. Team-lift long boards and use dollies or roller stands. Keep loads close, avoid twisting, break packs down, and pre-cut to reduce carries. Provide grip gloves and rest breaks. Clear routes and maintain firm, even footing throughout.
• Lone working and welfare — Use a lone-work plan with start/finish check-ins, emergency contacts, and reliable phone/radio. Restrict high-risk tasks when alone; stage materials to reduce strain. Provide first-aid kit, drinking water, shelter, and precise address/location references for responders.
• Ladders and temporary access — Select industrial ladders at 1:4 pitch, secure at top or foot, and maintain three points of contact. Keep use short-duration. Step-ladders fully opened and locked. Store tools in belts, not hands. Ensure firm level ground, avoid side-loading and over-reaching, and inspect each shift.
• Public interface and site security — Establish barriers and clear signage; lock tools and isolate power when unattended. Supervise visitors; screen cutting areas from passers-by; control dust and noise near neighbours. Remove ladders or chain them; cover holes and edges out of hours and verify at start-up.