| RAMSPROZONE | METHOD STATEMENT — HARD LANDSCAPING WORKS |
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| Company / Contractor Name: [ENTER COMPANY / CONTRACTOR NAME] | Doc No: [DOC NO.] |
| DOCUMENT TITLE BLOCK | |||
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| Document No.: [ENTER DOCUMENT NUMBER] |
Revision: 00 |
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] |
Status: Initial Issue |
| Project Name: [ENTER PROJECT NAME] |
Project No.: [ENTER PROJECT NO.] |
Project Location: [ENTER PROJECT LOCATION / SITE ADDRESS] |
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| Prepared By: [NAME / DESIGNATION] |
Reviewed By: [NAME / DESIGNATION] |
Approved By: [NAME / DESIGNATION] |
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY] |
| Client / Owner: [ENTER CLIENT / OWNER NAME] |
Main Contractor: [ENTER MAIN CONTRACTOR NAME] |
Sub-Contractor: [ENTER SUB-CONTRACTOR NAME] |
Applicable Standards: ISO 45001:2018; ISO 9001:2015; ISO 14001:2015 |
| TEMPLATE NOTE: All fields in [RED BRACKETS / ITALIC] are placeholders. Replace each with your project-specific information before issue or use. Provided free of charge by RAMSPROZONE for global HSE professionals. | |||
Table of Contents
1. Purpose
This Method Statement defines the planned sequence of operations, health and safety controls, quality standards, and environmental management measures applicable to the execution of Hard Landscaping Works within the horticulture sector. It establishes a structured framework to ensure that all associated works — including site clearance, sub-base preparation, paving, kerbing, drainage integration, and surface finishing — are carried out safely, efficiently, and in full conformance with the project specification, approved drawings, and the requirements of [LOCAL AUTHORITY / REGULATORY BODY NAME].
This document must be read in conjunction with the approved design drawings, project specifications, Risk Assessment, Inspection and Test Plan (ITP), and the Project HSE Plan. All operatives shall be briefed on the contents of this Method Statement prior to the commencement of works. This document is prepared in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018.
2. Scope of Work
The scope of works covered under this Method Statement includes, but is not limited to, the following activities:
- Site survey, setting out, and establishment of reference levels and datum points
- Vegetation clearance, topsoil strip, and disposal of arisings in accordance with the approved waste management plan
- Bulk excavation and formation of sub-grade to design levels and cross-falls
- Supply, laying, and compaction of sub-base material (Type 1 MOT or equivalent granular fill) to specified depths and densities
- Supply and installation of edge restraints, kerbing units, and retaining elements (concrete, natural stone, or precast)
- Supply, laying, and jointing of hard paving surfaces including block paving, natural stone paving, porcelain paving, concrete flags, tarmacadam, or resin-bound surfaces as specified
- Bedding layer preparation (sharp sand, mortar, or proprietary bedding compound as specified)
- Supply and installation of surface water drainage channels, gullies, and associated pipework
- Construction of steps, ramps, raised planters, and decorative hard features as shown on drawings
- Reinstatement and making good of surrounding soft landscaping and existing infrastructure interfaces
- Cleaning of all completed hard surfaces and removal of surplus materials
- Interface with irrigation, lighting, and soft landscaping trades as required by the programme
3. Responsibilities
| Role / Designation | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Site Engineer | Overall technical management of hard landscaping works; interpretation of drawings and specifications; control of setting out and levels; approval of sub-base compaction test results; liaison with QA/QC Inspector; co-ordination with other trades. |
| Hard Landscaping Supervisor / Foreman | Day-to-day supervision of all hard landscaping operatives; ensuring works are executed in accordance with this Method Statement; monitoring material quality on delivery; reporting of non-conformances; briefing of Toolbox Talks; ensuring safe working practices are maintained at all times. |
| HSE Officer | Implementation and monitoring of the Project HSE Plan; conducting daily site safety inspections; delivery of Toolbox Talks; ensuring all operatives are briefed on risk assessments; investigation of near-misses and incidents; control of Permits to Work where required. |
| QA/QC Inspector | Execution of inspection and testing activities as defined in the ITP; recording of hold/witness point sign-offs; identification and management of non-conforming materials and workmanship; maintaining quality records in accordance with ISO 9001:2015. |
Additional roles may be added as required per [PROJECT / COMPANY ORGANISATIONAL CHART REFERENCE].
4. Required Tools & Equipment
- Tracked or wheeled excavator (appropriate bucket size for formation excavation)
- Ride-on or pedestrian vibrating plate compactor / wacker plate (for sub-base compaction)
- Vibrating roller (where specified for large-area compaction)
- Dumper truck / site tipping vehicle for material transportation
- GPS total station or optical level and staff for setting out and level control
- Laser level and rotating laser for surface screeding and cross-fall checks
- Concrete mixer or forced-action mixer (for mortar production)
- Block splitter / angle grinder with diamond blade (for paving cutting operations)
- Rubber mallet, block paving hammer, and jointing tools
- Pointing irons, grout pump, and jointing compound applicators
- Screeding rails, float boards, and spirit levels (minimum 1800 mm)
- String lines, pegs, and profiles for alignment control
- Water bowser / hosepipe for dust suppression and mortar curing
- Plate vibrator with rubber protection pad (for bedding block paving without surface damage)
- Hand tools: shovels, rakes, brooms, trowels, bolsters
- Nuclear density gauge or sand replacement apparatus (for sub-base compaction testing)
- Steel straight-edge and feeler gauge (for level and regularity checks)
- Tape measures, chalk line reels, and marking paint
- Personal Protective Equipment (as detailed in Section 8)
- Lifting equipment, slings, and shackles for heavy stone or precast element handling
5. Materials
All materials shall be in strict accordance with the approved material submittals and project specifications. No substitutions shall be made without written approval from the Engineer / Client Representative.
- Sub-base: Granular Type 1 MOT (or equivalent crushed stone/gravel meeting the project specification grading envelope)
- Sand Bedding: Sharp washed sand (BS EN 13139 or equivalent) — for flexible block paving; proprietary levelling compound where specified
- Mortar Bedding: Semi-dry cement: sand mortar (1:4 or as specified) for rigid paving systems
- Concrete: Ready-mixed concrete to specified strength class (e.g. C20/25 or as designed) for haunching, edgings, and bases
- Block Paving Units: Concrete block pavers or clay pavers to BS EN 1338 / BS EN 1344 (or approved equivalent)
- Natural Stone / Porcelain Paving: As specified — complying with BS EN 1341 (natural stone slabs) or equivalent; minimum slip resistance rating as specified
- Kerb Units: Precast concrete kerbs to BS EN 1340 or natural stone kerbs as specified
- Edge Restraints: Steel, aluminium, or plastic edging as specified; timber edging where permitted by design
- Jointing Sand: Kiln-dried jointing sand or proprietary polymeric jointing compound as specified
- Drainage Channels: HDPE, ACO, or precast concrete drainage channels as specified, with appropriate gratings
- Geotextile Membrane: Non-woven separation fabric (150 g/m² minimum or as specified) for sub-base layers
- Surface Sealant / Resin Binder: Where resin-bound or resin-bonded systems are specified — proprietary products approved by the Engineer
6. Handling & Storage
6.1 Fabrication / Pre-assembly
Where precast concrete elements, natural stone features, or bespoke hard landscaping components are manufactured off-site, the Supplier shall provide factory inspection records, CE marking documentation (or equivalent), and test certificates for review and approval by the QA/QC Inspector prior to delivery. Pre-cast elements shall be individually identified with cast or adhesive labels indicating batch reference, mix design, and date of manufacture.
6.2 Receipt & Inspection at Site
All delivered materials shall be inspected immediately upon arrival at the site gate. The following checks shall be undertaken by the Supervisor or QA/QC Inspector:
- Verification of delivery note against approved material submittal and purchase order
- Visual inspection for cracking, breakage, colour variation, and dimensional compliance
- Check of CE marking, batch number, manufacturer's test certificate, and product data sheet
- Rejection and quarantine tagging of any non-conforming or damaged units
- Documentation of accepted delivery on the material receipt log
6.3 Unloading, Shifting & Storage
- Paving units and kerb stones shall be unloaded using mechanical plant (telehandler or forklift) or by a trained manual handling team — individual slab/block weights must be assessed and two-person or mechanical lifts mandated where necessary
- All materials shall be stored on firm, level ground, away from areas of vehicular traffic and waterlogged areas
- Natural stone and porcelain paving shall be stored flat on timber bearers with protective covering (sheeting or corrugated cardboard between layers) to prevent chipping and staining
- Bags of sand, cement, and jointing compound shall be stored in a covered, dry area on pallets, off the ground
- Sands, aggregates, and granular sub-base shall be stored in separate bays with clear material identification signage and protection from contamination
- Damaged, rejected, or non-conforming materials shall be clearly segregated, marked with red "NC" tags, and removed from the working area promptly
7. Installation / Work Procedure
7.1 Pre-Commencement Checks & Site Preparation
7.1.1 Prior to commencement, confirm that all relevant Permits to Work have been issued and signed, all operatives have been briefed via Toolbox Talk, and all plant is subject to a valid pre-use inspection.
7.1.2 Obtain and review the approved construction drawings, existing utilities drawings, and any underground services search records (CAT scanning or equivalent). Mark all known services on the ground using appropriate paint codes.
7.1.3 Establish temporary site fencing, hoarding, or barrier systems to segregate the working area from public access and interfacing trades.
7.1.4 Confirm setting-out benchmarks and site datum with the Site Engineer. Establish temporary bench marks (TBMs) at minimum two locations within the working area.
7.1.5 Strip and remove existing vegetation, topsoil, and any unsuitable material to the depths specified on drawings. Dispose of or stockpile in accordance with the approved waste management plan.
7.2 Setting Out & Levelling
7.2.1 Set out the hard landscaping area from the agreed reference points using total station, optical level, or laser level. Establish profiles and string lines for all edges, kerb lines, and level changes.
7.2.2 Peg out the perimeter of all paved areas, paths, steps, and features in accordance with the approved layout drawings. Cross-falls and drainage gradients shall be confirmed prior to sub-base placement (minimum 1:80 cross-fall or as specified).
7.2.3 The Site Engineer shall approve all set-out profiles before excavation proceeds. Approval shall be recorded in the site inspection register.
7.3 Sub-base & Bedding Layer Construction
7.3.1 Where specified, lay a non-woven geotextile separation membrane over the prepared sub-grade before sub-base placement. Overlaps shall be a minimum of 300 mm and secured with U-pins.
7.3.2 Place and spread granular sub-base material in layers not exceeding 150 mm compacted thickness. Each layer shall be compacted using a vibrating plate or roller to achieve the specified compaction standard (minimum 95% modified Proctor density or as specified).
7.3.3 Carry out in-situ compaction testing at the frequency specified in the ITP (minimum one test per 500 m² or as directed by the Engineer). Record all test results on the compaction test log.
7.3.4 For flexible paving systems: apply sharp sand bedding layer (nominally 25–50 mm loose depth to achieve 25 mm compacted) and screed to level using steel screeding rails. The screeded sand shall not be walked upon or disturbed prior to paving placement.
7.3.5 For rigid paving systems: prepare semi-dry mortar bedding (1:4 cement:sand or as specified) to a nominal depth of 40–50 mm and tamp firmly level. Back-butter individual slabs with neat cement slurry immediately prior to laying.
7.4 Edging, Kerbing & Retaining Elements
7.4.1 Install all edge restraints, kerb units, and retaining elements before the main paving surface is laid (unless the design specifies otherwise).
7.4.2 Lay kerbs and edgings on a concrete foundation bed of the specified mix and dimensions. Haunching shall be applied to both faces to the dimensions shown on drawings.
7.4.3 Align kerb units using string line to ensure straight lines on straight runs and smooth curves on radii. Maximum deviation from line and level: ±5 mm over 3 m.
7.4.4 Allow concrete haunching to cure for a minimum of 24 hours (or as specified) before back-filling or applying vehicular loads.
7.5 Paving, Block-work & Surface Laying
7.5.1 Commence laying of paving units from the highest point of the surface and work down towards drainage channels and gullies. Lay to a running bond or the pattern specified on the drawing.
7.5.2 Maintain consistent joint widths throughout (nominally 2–3 mm for block paving or as specified). Use spacers where required to maintain regularity.
7.5.3 Cut paving units to fit perimeter courses using a block splitter or angle grinder with a diamond blade. All cutting shall be carried out in a designated cutting area with dust extraction controls and PPE in use.
7.5.4 For natural stone and porcelain slabs — check each unit for colour matching, dimension, and surface integrity before bedding. Slabs shall be laid in sequence from approved setting-out sheets.
7.5.5 After laying, compact block paving using a plate vibrator fitted with a rubber protection pad to seat units fully into the bedding. Carry out a minimum of two passes in perpendicular directions.
7.5.6 Verify levels and cross-falls against design at 3 m grid intervals during laying. Correct any high or low spots by re-lifting and adjusting bedding material — do not use spot-packing.
7.6 Jointing, Pointing & Sealing
7.6.1 For flexible block paving: spread kiln-dried jointing sand across the surface and brush into joints using a stiff brush. Carry out final plate vibrator compaction pass. Repeat application of jointing sand as required until joints are fully filled.
7.6.2 For rigid paving: point joints using the specified mortar mix applied by hand or gun pointing. Tool joints to a slightly recessed, weathered profile. Remove all surface mortar smears immediately using a damp cloth before mortar sets.
7.6.3 Apply polymeric jointing compound or resin grout where specified by the design — follow manufacturer's instructions for temperature and moisture requirements during application and curing.
7.6.4 Where surface sealants or impregnators are specified, apply only to clean, dry, and fully cured paving in accordance with the manufacturer's written instructions and approved application method statement.
7.7 Drainage Integration
7.7.1 Install surface drainage channels, gullies, and collection sumps in locations indicated on the drainage layout drawings. Set channel tops to finished surface level ±3 mm.
7.7.2 Verify drainage fall is correctly established along channels. Flush with water to confirm flow direction and identify any ponding. Rectify immediately if identified.
7.7.3 Interface with the drainage / civils trade for connection of channel outlets to the sub-surface drainage network. Co-ordinate with the Site Engineer prior to back-filling or covering connections.
7.8 Finishing, Cleaning & Protection
7.8.1 On completion of paving, carry out a full visual and dimensional inspection of all completed surfaces in accordance with the ITP.
7.8.2 Clean all completed paving surfaces of mortar staining, cement bloom, and construction debris using appropriate cleaning agents and methods. Do not use acid cleaners on limestone, marble, or polished stone.
7.8.3 Protect completed areas with temporary hoarding, pedestrian barriers, or protection boards where adjacent works are ongoing. Restrict vehicle access until haunching concrete has achieved full design strength.
7.8.4 Remove all surplus materials, temporary equipment, and construction waste from the site. Make good all areas disturbed during works to the satisfaction of the Engineer.
8. Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)
All works shall comply with the project HSE Plan, the applicable regulations of [LOCAL HSE AUTHORITY / REGULATORY BODY NAME], and the requirements listed below:
- Toolbox Talks (TBT): A TBT shall be conducted at the commencement of each working day and prior to any change in work activity or significant hazard. TBT records shall be signed by all attendees and retained on site.
- Mandatory PPE: Safety helmet, high-visibility vest, safety boots (steel toecap and mid-sole), safety gloves, and eye protection shall be worn at all times in the working area. Knee pads are required for operatives laying paving at ground level. Dust masks (minimum FFP2) shall be worn during all cutting, grinding, and mixing operations. Face shield required when operating angle grinders.
- Manual Handling: Risk assessment for manual handling shall be completed before works commence. Two-person lifts mandatory for paving slabs or kerb units exceeding 25 kg. Mechanical aids (trolleys, vacuum lifters, sack barrows) shall be provided and used where practicable.
- Plant & Equipment Safety: All plant operators shall hold a valid certificate of competence (e.g. CPCS or equivalent). Daily pre-use plant inspection checklists shall be completed and signed. Exclusion zones shall be established around operating excavators and compactors using barriers or spotters.
- Electrical Tool Safety: All electrical tools shall be 110V centre-tapped earth supply (or battery-powered equivalents). PAT testing records shall be available on site. RCDs shall be used on all 230V supplies where 110V is not available. No electrical tools shall be used in wet conditions without appropriate IP rating.
- Dust Control: Cutting of paving materials generates hazardous silica dust. All cutting shall be carried out using wet-cutting methods or equipment with on-tool dust extraction (LEV). Cutting areas shall be cordoned off from other operatives.
- Chemical & Substance Handling: Safety Data Sheets (SDS) shall be available on site for all hazardous substances including cement, adhesives, sealants, and cleaning agents. COSHH assessments shall be in place. Operatives shall be trained in SDS requirements before use.
- Working at Height: Where steps, raised planters, retaining walls, or elevated features require operatives to work above 2 m, a working at height risk assessment shall be in place and appropriate access equipment (mobile scaffold, aluminium tower, or MEWP) shall be used.
- Environmental Controls: All cement, mortar, and concrete washings shall be contained and disposed of via an approved route — direct discharge to watercourses or drainage is strictly prohibited. Fuel and oil storage shall comply with containment requirements. Materials shall not be stockpiled in watercourse proximity.
- Emergency Procedures: Emergency assembly point locations, first aider names, and emergency services contact numbers shall be communicated at induction and displayed on site. A stocked first aid kit shall be maintained in the site welfare area. Any injury or near-miss shall be reported immediately to the HSE Officer and recorded in the site accident book.
Permit to Work Requirements: [ENTER PTW REQUIREMENTS — e.g. Excavation Permit, Hot Work Permit, Confined Space Entry Permit as applicable]
Risk Assessment Reference: [ENTER RA REFERENCE]
9. Quality Control & Inspection
All inspection and test activities shall be executed by the QA/QC Inspector in accordance with the approved Inspection and Test Plan (ITP). Each hold and witness point listed below requires a formal sign-off by the QA/QC Inspector before works proceed to the next stage. All inspection records shall be maintained in the project quality file in accordance with ISO 9001:2015.
| # | Inspection Activity | Reference Document | Acceptance Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Material Inspection on Delivery (paving, kerbs, sub-base) | Approved Material Submittals; Delivery Note; BS EN 1338 / 1340 / 1341 | Materials match approved submittals; no breakage, staining, or dimensional non-conformance; test certs on file |
| 2 | Sub-grade Inspection (formation level check) | Approved Drawings; ITP | Formation levels within ±10 mm of design; no soft spots or unsuitable material present; approved by Site Engineer |
| 3 | Geotextile Installation Check | Project Specification; Manufacturer's Data Sheet | Correct product specified; minimum 300 mm overlaps; no tears or gaps; laid without folds or bridging |
| 4 | Sub-base Compaction Testing | ITP; Project Specification; ASTM D1557 / BS 1377 | Minimum 95% modified Proctor density (or as specified); one test per 500 m² minimum; all results on record |
| 5 | Kerb / Edging Line & Level Check | Approved Drawings; Setting-Out Survey | Maximum ±5 mm from design line and level over 3 m; haunching dimensions correct; no rocking or instability |
| 6 | Bedding Layer Thickness & Level Check | Project Specification; Approved Drawings | Sand bedding: 25 mm compacted ±5 mm; mortar bedding: 40–50 mm ±5 mm; surface to correct cross-fall |
| 7 | Paving Surface Level, Regularity & Alignment | Approved Drawings; BS 7533 or equivalent | Maximum 5 mm deviation under 3 m straight edge; cross-falls within ±0.25% of design; no rocking units |
| 8 | Joint Width & Pointing Quality Check | Project Specification; Manufacturer's Guidelines | Joint widths consistent ±1 mm; joints fully filled; no surface cracking, hollow pointing, or mortar smearing |
| 9 | Drainage Channel Level & Flow Test | Drainage Layout Drawings; ITP | Channel top ±3 mm of finished surface level; water flows freely to outlet; no ponding observed in channels |
| 10 | Final Surface Inspection & Cleanliness Check | Project Specification; Approved Drawings | No cracked, chipped, or stained units; all mortar and cement bloom removed; surfaces clean and ready for handover |
ITP Reference: [ENTER ITP DOCUMENT REFERENCE NUMBER]
10. Reference Documents
- ISO 9001:2015 — Quality Management Systems
- ISO 14001:2015 — Environmental Management Systems
- ISO 45001:2018 — Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems
- IOSH — Managing Safely (risk assessment and method statement principles)
- BS EN 1338 — Concrete Paving Blocks
- BS EN 1340 — Concrete Kerb Units
- BS EN 1341 — Natural Stone Slabs for External Paving
- BS EN 1344 — Clay Pavers
- BS 7533 — Pavements Constructed with Clay, Natural Stone, or Concrete Pavers
- ASTM D1557 / BS 1377 — Compaction Testing for Sub-base
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P — Excavations (for reference where applicable)
- Approved Material Submittals — [ENTER SUBMITTAL REFERENCES]
- Approved Construction / Layout Drawings — [ENTER DRAWING REFERENCES]
- Project Specifications — [ENTER RELEVANT SECTION / CLAUSE REFERENCE]
- Project HSE Plan — Ref: [ENTER REFERENCE]
- Inspection & Test Plan (ITP) — Ref: [ENTER REFERENCE]
- Risk Assessment — Ref: [ENTER REFERENCE]
11. Document Revision History
| Rev. | Date | Description of Change | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00 | [DD/MM/YYYY] | Initial Issue | [NAME / DESIGNATION] |
| 01 | [DD/MM/YYYY] | [DESCRIBE REVISION] | [NAME / DESIGNATION] |
12. Approval & Sign-Off
| Prepared By | Reviewed By | Approved By | Client / Owner Representative |
|---|---|---|---|
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Name: [ENTER NAME] Designation: [ENTER DESIGNATION] Signature & Date
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Name: [ENTER NAME] Designation: [ENTER DESIGNATION] Signature & Date
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Name: [ENTER NAME] Designation: [ENTER DESIGNATION] Signature & Date
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Name: [ENTER NAME] Designation: [ENTER DESIGNATION] Signature & Date
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