Method Statement MS 2
Water-Fed Pole Window Cleaning
StatementMS 2
Persons involved or affected
EmployeesContractorsVisitors / public
Statement status
InitialChange / incident review
1
Introduction
A method statement for water-fed pole window cleaning outlines the step-by-step process for safely carrying out the task, including the equipment to be used, procedures to follow, and safety measures to be implemented. Here’s a detailed method statement:
2
Scope of work
This method statement outlines the procedures for cleaning windows using a water-fed pole system. The work includes the safe and efficient cleaning of external windows on low-rise and high-rise buildings using purified water delivered through extendable poles.
3
Responsibilities
• Site Supervisor: Ensure all workers understand and follow this method statement. Conduct safety briefings and inspect the worksite.
• Operatives: Carry out the cleaning work in accordance with this method statement. Report any hazards or incidents immediately.
• Safety Officer: Monitor safety compliance, conduct risk assessments, and provide guidance on health and safety issues.
• Operatives: Carry out the cleaning work in accordance with this method statement. Report any hazards or incidents immediately.
• Safety Officer: Monitor safety compliance, conduct risk assessments, and provide guidance on health and safety issues.
4
Equipment and materials
• Water-Fed Poles: Extendable poles capable of reaching windows from ground level.
• Purified Water System: System for filtering and delivering purified water to the poles.
• Water Hoses: To connect the water system to the poles.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
o High-visibility vests
o Gloves
o Safety boots
o Hard hats (if required)
• Signage and Barriers: For demarcating the work area.
• Water Supply: Connection to a water source or portable water tank.
• Trolley or Transportation Cart: For carrying the water tank and other equipment.
• Purified Water System: System for filtering and delivering purified water to the poles.
• Water Hoses: To connect the water system to the poles.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
o High-visibility vests
o Gloves
o Safety boots
o Hard hats (if required)
• Signage and Barriers: For demarcating the work area.
• Water Supply: Connection to a water source or portable water tank.
• Trolley or Transportation Cart: For carrying the water tank and other equipment.
5
Procedure
1 Site Preparation
• Conduct a site survey to identify any hazards, such as uneven ground, overhead obstructions, or electrical outlets.
• Set up barriers and safety signage to cordon off the work area and protect the public from hazards.
• Inspect all equipment, including poles, hoses, and the water purification system, for any damage or defects.
• Ensure that the water supply is connected and functioning correctly.
2 Safety Precautions
• Conduct a toolbox talk to review the risk assessment, method statement, and safety procedures with all operatives.
• Check weather conditions. Do not proceed if there are high winds, storms, or any other adverse conditions that could compromise safety.
• Ensure all operatives are wearing appropriate PPE.
• Confirm that the work area is clear of pedestrians and vehicles.
3 Cleaning Procedure
• Extend the water-fed pole to the required height, ensuring stability and control.
• Start from the top of the window and work downwards. Apply water evenly across the surface using the brush attached to the pole.
• Scrub the window surface gently to remove dirt and debris, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
• Rinse the window with purified water to remove all contaminants and avoid streaks.
• Repeat the process for each window, moving methodically across the building facade.
4 Manual Handling
• Use proper lifting techniques when handling heavy equipment, such as the water tank or poles.
• Use a trolley or cart to transport equipment around the site to reduce manual handling risks.
• If lifting is required, ensure that it is done by two operatives for heavy items.
5 Post-Cleaning Activities
• Inspect all windows to ensure they are clean and free of streaks. Touch up as needed.
• Dismantle the equipment, starting with the poles and then disconnecting the water supply.
• Store equipment securely and check for any damage.
• Remove all barriers and signage, ensuring the site is clean and tidy.
• Report any issues or incidents to the site supervisor immediately.
• Conduct a site survey to identify any hazards, such as uneven ground, overhead obstructions, or electrical outlets.
• Set up barriers and safety signage to cordon off the work area and protect the public from hazards.
• Inspect all equipment, including poles, hoses, and the water purification system, for any damage or defects.
• Ensure that the water supply is connected and functioning correctly.
2 Safety Precautions
• Conduct a toolbox talk to review the risk assessment, method statement, and safety procedures with all operatives.
• Check weather conditions. Do not proceed if there are high winds, storms, or any other adverse conditions that could compromise safety.
• Ensure all operatives are wearing appropriate PPE.
• Confirm that the work area is clear of pedestrians and vehicles.
3 Cleaning Procedure
• Extend the water-fed pole to the required height, ensuring stability and control.
• Start from the top of the window and work downwards. Apply water evenly across the surface using the brush attached to the pole.
• Scrub the window surface gently to remove dirt and debris, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
• Rinse the window with purified water to remove all contaminants and avoid streaks.
• Repeat the process for each window, moving methodically across the building facade.
4 Manual Handling
• Use proper lifting techniques when handling heavy equipment, such as the water tank or poles.
• Use a trolley or cart to transport equipment around the site to reduce manual handling risks.
• If lifting is required, ensure that it is done by two operatives for heavy items.
5 Post-Cleaning Activities
• Inspect all windows to ensure they are clean and free of streaks. Touch up as needed.
• Dismantle the equipment, starting with the poles and then disconnecting the water supply.
• Store equipment securely and check for any damage.
• Remove all barriers and signage, ensuring the site is clean and tidy.
• Report any issues or incidents to the site supervisor immediately.
6
Emergency procedures
• In case of injury: Administer first aid and contact emergency services if necessary. Follow the company’s emergency procedures.
• In case of equipment failure: Stop work immediately and report the issue to the site supervisor. Do not continue until the equipment is repaired or replaced.
• In case of adverse weather: Cease all operations and take shelter. Do not resume work until conditions improve.
• In case of equipment failure: Stop work immediately and report the issue to the site supervisor. Do not continue until the equipment is repaired or replaced.
• In case of adverse weather: Cease all operations and take shelter. Do not resume work until conditions improve.
7
Environmental considerations
• Use purified water to minimize the environmental impact of cleaning.
• Avoid excessive water usage by controlling the flow through the poles.
• Ensure all waste materials, such as packaging from new equipment or damaged items, are disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
• Avoid excessive water usage by controlling the flow through the poles.
• Ensure all waste materials, such as packaging from new equipment or damaged items, are disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
8
Review and monitoring
• Conduct a final inspection of all cleaned windows to ensure they meet quality standards.
• Address any deficiencies immediately to maintain high standards of workmanship.
• Address any deficiencies immediately to maintain high standards of workmanship.