Risk Assessment and Method Statement Template for Audio Visual Installation
This document should not be used until it has been thoroughly reviewed by a competent person.
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| Project title: | |
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| Contract No: | |
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This document has been provided as a template. By completing the section above, you take full responsibility for the use of this document.
RAMS : Audio Visual Installations
Site Specific Instructions
Work Process and Associated Hazards
Removal of Existing Cabling
Delivery and Storage of Materials
Containment Tray and Containment Installation
Install Cabling
1st Fix of Audio and Visual Equipment
2nd Fix of Audio and Visual Equipment
Cable Termination and Labelling
Commissioning and Handover of Audio Systems
Electrical hazards : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Subcontractors | Maintenance personnel Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Working at height : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site supervisors | Other construction workers Type of harm: Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Manual handling : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Delivery personnel Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Slips, trips, and falls : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Visitors | Delivery personnel Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury | Muscular Injury Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Noise exposure : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Site supervisors Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Sharp objects and tools : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Subcontractors Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions | Eye Damage Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Dust inhalation : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Cleaning personnel Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
Falling objects : Low (1) Who might be harmed: Installation technicians | Site workers | Visitors Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Eye Damage | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25)
Controls
Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)
All personnel involved in the audio visual installation project must possess the requisite skills and qualifications pertinent to their specific roles. Installation technicians must hold relevant certifications in electrical installations and demonstrate proficiency in handling audio visual equipment. Prior experience in similar projects is essential to ensure familiarity with the intricacies of such installations. Supervisors are required to have a comprehensive understanding of audio visual systems and must be capable of overseeing the technical aspects of the installation process. They should also be adept at coordinating tasks and managing teams effectively. Prior to commencement, all personnel will undergo a site-specific induction, which will include a detailed briefing on the unique challenges associated with audio visual installations. This will cover the handling of sensitive equipment, adherence to manufacturer specifications, and the importance of maintaining high standards of workmanship. Regular toolbox talks will be conducted to address any emerging issues and reinforce best practises. These sessions will focus on the safe handling of equipment, correct installation techniques, and the importance of accurate cable termination and labelling. Competence assessments will be carried out periodically to ensure that all team members maintain the necessary skill levels throughout the project. Any identified gaps in knowledge or skills will be addressed through targeted training sessions. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations must attend a site-specific induction prior to commencing work. This induction will cover the unique risks associated with the installation of audio and visual equipment, including: Safe handling and installation of sensitive electronic equipment: Emphasis will be placed on the correct handling techniques to prevent damage to equipment and ensure personal safety. Electrical safety: Training will include identification of live circuits, safe isolation procedures, and the importance of using insulated tools. Working at height: Personnel will be briefed on the use of ladders and access equipment, particularly when installing cabling and equipment at elevated positions. Manual handling: Specific training on lifting techniques for heavy or awkwardly shaped audio visual components will be provided to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Instruction on the mandatory use of PPE, such as gloves and eye protection, during installation tasks. Emergency procedures: Detailed information on site-specific emergency protocols, including the location of first aid kits and emergency exits, will be provided. Refresher training sessions will be conducted as necessary to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards. Attendance records for all inductions and training sessions will be maintained for audit purposes. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations shall utilise designated access routes to the work area, ensuring minimal disruption to other site activities. Access points will be clearly marked and kept free from obstructions at all times. Key access routes will be established for the delivery and storage of materials, with particular attention given to the safe movement of large or fragile audio visual equipment. These routes must be assessed for any potential hazards, such as uneven surfaces or restricted spaces, which could impede the safe transport of equipment. During the installation phases, containment tray and cabling works will require careful coordination to ensure that access paths remain clear. Temporary barriers or signage may be employed to delineate work zones and prevent unauthorised entry. Egress procedures must be clearly communicated to all team members, with emergency exits identified and unobstructed. In the event of an emergency, all personnel must be familiar with the quickest and safest evacuation routes from their specific work locations. Regular site inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with these access and egress arrangements, and any deviations or issues must be promptly addressed to maintain a safe working environment. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations shall have access to adequate welfare facilities throughout the duration of the project. These facilities will be located on-site and will include clean and accessible toilets, handwashing stations, and a designated area for rest breaks. Toilets and Handwashing Stations: It is imperative that all workers maintain high standards of hygiene, particularly when handling sensitive audio visual equipment. Handwashing stations will be equipped with soap and drying facilities to ensure cleanliness before and after handling equipment. Rest Areas: A designated rest area will be provided where workers can take breaks away from the installation site. This area will be equipped with seating and shelter to protect against adverse weather conditions. It is essential that workers utilise this space to prevent fatigue, which could compromise safety and the quality of installations. Drinking Water: Potable drinking water will be available at all times. Workers are encouraged to stay hydrated, especially when performing tasks that require concentration and precision, such as cable termination and labelling. First Aid Facilities: A first aid kit will be readily accessible in the welfare area, and a trained first aider will be present on-site at all times. In the event of an injury, immediate first aid can be administered, ensuring swift response to any incidents. Waste Disposal: Proper waste disposal facilities will be provided to manage any packaging or waste materials generated during the installation process. This is crucial to maintain a tidy work environment and prevent any potential hazards associated with clutter or debris. By adhering to these welfare procedures, the project aims to ensure a safe and comfortable working environment for all personnel involved in the audio visual installations. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations must ensure compliance with the special permit requirements specific to this project. Prior to commencing any work, a Permit to Work must be obtained for activities involving electrical systems, particularly during the removal of existing cabling and the installation of new cabling. This permit ensures that all electrical systems are isolated and safe to work on. For tasks involving working at height, such as the installation of containment trays and audio visual equipment, a Working at Height Permit is mandatory. This permit will confirm that appropriate fall protection measures are in place and that all personnel are trained and competent in working at height. Additionally, if any hot works are required during the installation process, such as soldering or using heat guns for cable termination, a Hot Works Permit must be secured. This permit will ensure that fire safety measures are implemented, including the availability of fire extinguishers and the presence of a fire watch. All permits must be reviewed and authorised by the site manager before work commences. It is imperative that these permits are displayed prominently at the work site and that all team members are briefed on the conditions and restrictions outlined within each permit. Compliance with these procedures is essential to maintain a safe working environment throughout the project. All tools and equipment utilised for the audio visual installations must be suitable for the task and maintained in good working order. Prior to use, each tool must undergo a visual inspection to ensure it is free from defects. Any tool found to be defective must be immediately removed from service and reported to the site supervisor. Hand tools such as cable cutters, crimping tools, and screwdrivers must be used with care to prevent injury. Personnel must ensure that they are using the correct tool for the task at hand to avoid damage to equipment or injury. Power tools, including drills and impact drivers, must be battery-operated where possible to minimise trailing cables. All power tools must be PAT tested and display a valid test label. Operators must be trained in their use and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety goggles and gloves. Ladders and access equipment must be inspected before use. Only Class 1 or EN131 ladders are permitted on site. Personnel must ensure that ladders are positioned on stable ground and secured appropriately. When working at height, a second person must be present to assist and ensure safety. Cable pulling equipment, such as fish tapes or cable rods, must be used to guide cabling through containment trays. Care must be taken to avoid excessive force which could damage the cables or containment. All tools and equipment must be stored securely when not in use to prevent unauthorised access or accidental damage. At the end of each working day, tools must be returned to the designated storage area and accounted for. All existing services must be identified and documented prior to the commencement of any work. This includes electrical, data, and any other relevant services that may be affected by the audio visual installation. A thorough survey should be conducted to ensure all services are accounted for. Before the removal of existing cabling, it is imperative to isolate all electrical circuits associated with the audio visual systems. This should be done in accordance with the site’s lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental energisation. Only qualified personnel are authorised to perform these isolations. During the installation of containment trays and cabling, care must be taken to avoid interference with existing services. Coordination with other trades is essential to ensure that no damage occurs to live services. Any potential conflicts should be resolved through consultation with the site manager. For the 1st and 2nd fix of audio and visual equipment, ensure that all connections are made to isolated circuits. Verification of isolation must be conducted prior to any connection work. This includes checking that all power supplies are de-energised and locked out. Cable termination and labelling should only proceed once it is confirmed that all necessary isolations are in place. Clear labelling of all cables is crucial to avoid future service disruptions and to facilitate maintenance. Prior to commissioning, a final check must be conducted to ensure that all services are correctly isolated and that no unauthorised re-energisation has occurred. Re-energisation should only occur once all installation work is complete and has been inspected and approved by a competent person. Throughout the project, maintain clear communication with the site management team regarding any changes or updates to service isolation requirements. All personnel involved in the audio visual installation project must be aware of the potential presence of hazardous substances, particularly those associated with the removal and installation of cabling and equipment. Identification and Assessment: Prior to commencing work, a thorough assessment shall be conducted to identify any hazardous substances that may be encountered, such as lead-based solder or asbestos-containing materials in older installations. Control Measures:
Storage and Handling: All hazardous substances must be stored in clearly labelled containers, in accordance with COSHH regulations. Handling should be minimised, and only trained personnel should manage these substances. Spill Response: In the event of a spill involving hazardous substances, immediate containment measures must be implemented. Spill kits should be readily available on site, and personnel must be trained in their use. Disposal: Disposal of hazardous waste must comply with relevant legislation. All waste should be segregated and disposed of by a licenced waste carrier. Training: Personnel must receive training on the safe handling and management of hazardous substances specific to audio visual installations. This includes understanding the risks associated with each substance and the correct use of PPE. By adhering to these procedures, the risk associated with hazardous substances during audio visual installations can be effectively managed. All deliveries of audio visual equipment and materials shall be scheduled to minimise disruption and ensure efficient handling. The delivery schedule must be coordinated with the site manager to avoid peak times and ensure that access routes are clear. Upon arrival, all materials must be inspected for damage and verified against the delivery note. Any discrepancies or damages must be reported immediately to the supplier and recorded in the site log. Materials, including cabling and audio visual equipment, shall be stored in a designated, secure area on-site. This area must be dry, well-ventilated, and protected from potential damage or theft. Cabling must be stored on reels or in appropriate containers to prevent tangling or damage. When handling materials, operatives must use appropriate manual handling techniques to prevent injury. For heavier items, such as large screens or speakers, mechanical aids or team lifting should be employed. All personnel involved in handling must wear suitable PPE, including gloves and safety footwear. During the installation phase, materials should be transported to the work area using trolleys or carts to reduce manual handling risks. Care must be taken to ensure that pathways are clear of obstructions and that materials are not left unattended in walkways. All waste materials and packaging must be disposed of promptly in accordance with site waste management procedures, ensuring that the work area remains tidy and safe at all times. All personnel involved in the audio visual installation project must adhere to the following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements to ensure safety and compliance with health and safety regulations: Safety Helmets: Must be worn at all times to protect against potential head injuries from overhead work during the installation of containment trays and cabling. Safety Footwear: Steel-toe capped boots are mandatory to prevent foot injuries from heavy equipment or materials being moved during the delivery, storage, and installation phases. High-Visibility Clothing: High-visibility vests or jackets must be worn to ensure visibility when moving around the site, particularly during the delivery and storage of materials. Eye Protection: Safety goggles or glasses are required when performing tasks such as drilling or cutting during the installation of containment trays and cabling to protect against flying debris. Hearing Protection: Ear defenders or plugs should be used when operating or working near loud equipment during the 1st and 2nd fix of audio and visual equipment. Gloves: Suitable gloves must be worn to protect hands from cuts and abrasions when handling sharp materials or tools, particularly during cable termination and labelling. Dust Masks: When working in dusty environments, especially during the removal of existing cabling, dust masks should be worn to prevent inhalation of harmful particles. All PPE must be checked regularly for damage and replaced as necessary. It is the responsibility of each team member to ensure their PPE is worn correctly and maintained in good condition throughout the duration of the project. In the event of an emergency during the audio visual installation project, all personnel must adhere to the following procedures: Immediate Response: Upon identifying an emergency, such as a fire or medical incident, the nearest operative must immediately alert others by shouting “Emergency” and activating the nearest alarm system. Evacuation: All personnel must cease work immediately and proceed to the designated assembly point via the nearest safe exit. Ensure that all tools and equipment are left in a safe condition to prevent further hazards. Communication: The site supervisor is responsible for contacting emergency services and providing them with specific details about the nature of the emergency, including any risks associated with electrical installations or potential hazards from incomplete cabling work. Accountability: A roll call will be conducted at the assembly point to ensure all personnel are accounted for. The site supervisor must verify that all team members, including subcontractors involved in the audio visual installation, are present. Isolation of Systems: If safe to do so, and without putting themselves at risk, designated personnel should isolate electrical systems related to the audio visual equipment to prevent further risk of electrical hazards. First Aid: Trained first aiders on site should administer first aid as necessary until professional medical assistance arrives. Ensure that first aid kits are accessible and stocked with supplies relevant to potential injuries from audio visual installation tasks. Post-Emergency Procedures: Once the emergency is resolved, a debrief will be conducted to assess the situation and identify any procedural improvements. All incidents must be reported and documented in accordance with company policy and health and safety regulations. Training and Drills: Regular emergency drills specific to audio visual installations will be conducted to ensure all personnel are familiar with these procedures and can respond effectively in an actual emergency. The safety of the public and occupiers during audio visual installations is of paramount importance. Access to the work area will be strictly controlled to prevent unauthorised entry. Clear and visible signage will be erected to inform the public and occupiers of ongoing works and potential hazards. Barriers and physical demarcations will be employed to delineate the work zone, ensuring that only authorised personnel can access the area. These barriers will be checked regularly to maintain their integrity and effectiveness. During the removal of existing cabling, care will be taken to minimise disruption and ensure that no loose cables pose a tripping hazard. All removed materials will be promptly cleared from the site to prevent obstruction. For the delivery and storage of materials, designated areas away from public access points will be used. Materials will be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access and potential hazards. When installing containment trays and cabling, all tools and equipment will be kept within the work area, and any trailing cables will be managed to avoid creating trip hazards. During both the 1st and 2nd fix of audio and visual equipment, noise levels will be monitored to ensure they remain within acceptable limits, minimising disturbance to occupiers. Cable termination and labelling activities will be conducted with precision to avoid unnecessary exposure of live wires, ensuring that all terminations are secure and clearly marked. Finally, during the commissioning and handover of audio systems, a thorough check will be conducted to ensure all systems are safely operational, with no exposed wiring or unsecured equipment that could pose a risk to the public or occupiers. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations must be briefed on the potential presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) prior to commencing work. A thorough asbestos survey must be conducted to identify any ACMs within the areas where cabling and equipment installation will occur. If ACMs are identified, work must cease immediately, and a licenced asbestos removal contractor should be engaged to safely remove or encapsulate the materials. No drilling, cutting, or disturbance of surfaces should occur until clearance is confirmed. During the removal of existing cabling, particular attention must be paid to ceiling voids, wall cavities, and other concealed spaces where ACMs may be present. All operatives must wear appropriate PPE, including respiratory protective equipment, when working in areas suspected of containing asbestos. Regular monitoring of the work environment should be conducted to ensure no accidental disturbance of ACMs occurs. In the event of accidental disturbance, the area must be evacuated, and an asbestos specialist should be contacted immediately to assess and manage the situation. All findings and actions taken regarding asbestos must be documented and communicated to all relevant parties involved in the project. The monitoring of audio visual installations shall be conducted through a structured approach to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Daily inspections will be carried out by the site supervisor to verify that all equipment, including cabling and containment trays, is installed according to the specified design and safety requirements. Regular audits will be scheduled to assess the adherence to the method statement, focusing on the correct use of tools and equipment during the installation phases. Particular attention will be given to the cable termination and labelling process, ensuring that all connections are secure and clearly marked to prevent any potential hazards. Checklists will be utilised to document the progress of each task, with emphasis on identifying any deviations from the planned procedures. Any issues identified during these checks will be promptly addressed, with corrective actions implemented and recorded. The commissioning and handover phase will include a comprehensive review of the installed systems, ensuring that all components function correctly and meet the required performance standards. This will involve testing the audio and visual equipment under operational conditions, with results documented for future reference. Feedback from the monitoring activities will be communicated to all relevant personnel, ensuring continuous improvement in safety practises throughout the project. All waste generated during the audio visual installation project shall be managed in accordance with the following procedures: Segregation of Waste: Waste materials shall be segregated at the source into distinct categories, including but not limited to: Collection and Storage: Designated waste collection points shall be established on-site. These points must be clearly marked and easily accessible. Waste containers shall be provided for each category of waste, ensuring that: Disposal: Waste shall be disposed of by a licenced waste carrier. The following procedures must be adhered to: Documentation: A waste transfer note must be completed for each load of waste removed from the site. This documentation shall include: Monitoring and Review: Regular audits of the waste management process shall be conducted to ensure compliance with the above procedures. Any non-compliance or issues identified shall be addressed promptly, with corrective actions documented and implemented. By adhering to these procedures, the project aims to minimise environmental impact and ensure compliance with relevant waste management legislation. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations shall adhere to the following project-specific environmental procedures: Noise Control: During the installation of audio and visual equipment, noise levels must be monitored and kept to a minimum to prevent disturbance to nearby residents and businesses. Use of power tools should be restricted to designated hours, and quieter methods should be employed where feasible. Waste Management: All waste materials, including packaging from audio visual equipment and cabling offcuts, must be segregated and disposed of in accordance with site waste management protocols. Recycling of materials should be prioritised where possible. Dust Suppression: Activities such as drilling for containment tray installation may generate dust. Appropriate dust suppression techniques, such as using dust extraction systems or wet drilling methods, must be employed to minimise airborne particles. Energy Efficiency: Ensure that all audio visual equipment installed is energy efficient and complies with current energy standards. Equipment should be powered down when not in use during the installation phase to conserve energy. Spill Prevention: Any liquids used during the installation process, such as cleaning agents for equipment, must be handled with care to prevent spills. Spill kits should be readily available on site, and any spills must be cleaned up immediately to prevent environmental contamination. Transport and Delivery: The delivery of materials should be planned to minimise vehicle movements on site, reducing emissions. Where possible, consolidate deliveries to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. By adhering to these procedures, the project will minimise its environmental impact while ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and standards. The project team shall ensure that all activities related to the audio visual installations are conducted with minimal disruption to near neighbours. Noise levels will be closely monitored, particularly during the removal of existing cabling and the installation phases. Work will be scheduled during standard working hours to avoid disturbance during early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Communication with neighbours will be maintained throughout the project. Prior to commencement, a notification letter will be distributed to inform them of the project timeline and potential impacts. Contact details for a designated liaison officer will be provided for any concerns or queries. Dust and debris control measures will be implemented during the removal of existing cabling and containment installation. This includes using dust extraction equipment and ensuring that all waste is promptly cleared from the site. Vehicle movements related to the delivery and storage of materials will be planned to minimise traffic congestion and avoid peak times. Delivery vehicles will be instructed to switch off engines when stationary to reduce noise and emissions. In the event of any complaints from neighbours, these will be logged and addressed promptly by the site manager, ensuring a swift resolution and maintaining good relations with the local community. All personnel involved in the audio visual installations must adhere to the following project-specific procedures to ensure occupational health is maintained: Manual Handling: Personnel must be trained in proper manual handling techniques, particularly when dealing with heavy or awkwardly shaped audio visual equipment. Use mechanical aids or team lifts where necessary to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Ergonomics: During the installation of cabling and equipment, workers should be mindful of their posture and avoid prolonged periods in awkward positions. Regular breaks should be taken to reduce strain, especially when working at height or in confined spaces. Noise Exposure: When testing audio systems, ensure that noise levels are kept within safe limits. Personnel should use hearing protection if noise levels exceed 85 dB(A) during commissioning and testing phases. Electrical Safety: Only qualified personnel should handle electrical connections and terminations. Ensure all equipment is de-energised before commencing work to prevent electrical shocks or burns. Dust and Fumes: If drilling or cutting is required for containment installation, appropriate dust extraction methods must be employed. Personnel should wear suitable respiratory protection if dust or fumes are generated. Eye Protection: Safety glasses must be worn when there is a risk of flying particles during tasks such as drilling or cutting containment trays. Work at Height: When installing equipment at height, ensure that appropriate fall protection measures are in place. Use scaffolding or mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) as required, and ensure all personnel are trained in their use. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Tasks involving repetitive motions, such as cable termination and labelling, should be rotated among team members to minimise the risk of RSI. By adhering to these procedures, the risk of occupational health issues can be significantly reduced during the audio visual installation project. All amendments to the method statement for audio visual installations must be documented and authorised prior to implementation. Any proposed changes to the installation process, such as alterations in cabling routes or equipment specifications, must be communicated to the project manager in writing. Authorisation Process:
Documentation: Compliance: This document has been provided as a template. By completing the section above, you take full responsibility for the use of this document.
Site Specific Hazards
Procedures
Personnel and competence
Site inductions and training
Access and egress arrangements
Welfare
Special permits
Tools and equipment
Services and isolations
Hazardous substances
Deliveries and materials handling
PPE
Emergency procedures
Safety of public and occupiers
Asbestos
Monitoring
Waste management
Environmental considerations
Near neighbours and nuisance
Occupational health
Amendments and authorisation
All authorised amendments must be recorded in the project documentation, with a clear audit trail maintained. This includes updating any relevant risk assessments and ensuring that all copies of the method statement reflect the latest authorised version.
It is imperative that no unauthorised changes are made to the installation process. Any deviation from the authorised method statement without prior approval will be considered a breach of site safety protocols and may result in disciplinary action.Activities
Removal of existing cabling
Delivery and storage of materials
Installation of containment tray and containment
Installation of cabling
First fix of audio and visual equipment
Second fix of audio and visual equipment
Cable termination and labelling
Commissioning and handover of audio systems
Induction Record
Company name:
Project title:
Location:
Contract No:
Subject:
Method Statement : Audio Visual Installations
Tutor:
Date:
Signature:
Name
Comments
Signature
Date