Understanding RAMS: Risk Assessment and Management Sheets

RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Management Sheet, a tool for identifying potential risks or hazards, assessing their severity, and outlining strategies to mitigate them. The purpose of RAMS is to demonstrate safety consideration, plan for potential issues, ensure the safety of participants and staff, and fulfill the duty of care, particularly in youth activities, public spaces, or travel. A typical RAMS sheet consists of five columns: Risk/Hazard, Likelihood, Impact, Risk Rating, Control Measures, and Responsible Person. When completing RAMS, it is important to be realistic in assessing risks and to provide specific, actionable control measures.