How to Write an Effective Method Statement: Essential Steps and Examples for Successful Tenders and Projects

What Is a Method Statement?

A method statement is a document that outlines how to carry out a specific task safely and efficiently. It's an essential tool for planning and communicating work procedures. It needs to ensure compliance with relevant laws and be reflective of how you deliver your service. Once developed it becomes a key tool for training, monitoring and quality, as well as evidence of your approach, which you may need to share with clients.

Definition and Purpose of a Method Statement

A method statement describes the steps needed to complete a job safely. It lists the risks involved and the safety measures to control them. The main purpose is to protect workers and others from harm.

Method statements help:

• Plan work in advance

• Identify potential hazards

• Set out safety precautions

• Explain the task to workers

• Meet legal health and safety requirements

They're often used with risk assessments. Together, these documents form a safe system of work. Good method statements can improve productivity and quality too.

Common Industries Where Method Statements Are Used

Method statements are widely used in high-risk industries. The construction sector relies on them heavily. Other fields that often need method statements include:

• Manufacturing

• Engineering

• Utilities

• Facilities management

• Event planning

In construction, you might need a method statement for tasks like demolition work. In manufacturing, it could be for operating machinery. Utility companies use them for repairs and installations. Any job with significant risks should have a method statement. This helps keep workers and the public safe.

How to Write a Method Statement

Within the context of a tender or ITT, you will likely have to supply relevant health and safety related method statements and risk assessments as evidence. However, 'method statements' is also the common term used within procurement to describe quality tender questions.

When answering tender questions, a well-written method statement is crucial for winning tenders. It shows your understanding of the project, your approach, and your commitment to safety and quality.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a Method Statement

The foundation of an effective method statement begins with thorough research and preparation. Before putting pen to paper, take time to carefully review all tender documentation, paying particular attention to specific requirements, evaluation criteria and the client's stated objectives. Understanding exactly what the client values will allow you to emphasise the aspects of your approach that will resonate most strongly with evaluators.

Once you've gained a clear understanding of the requirements, structure your response in a way that makes evaluation straightforward. Create a logical flow that mirrors the sequence of the tender questions or project phases. This not only demonstrates your organisational skills but also makes it significantly easier for evaluators to find and score the information they're looking for.

When detailing your methodology, clarity is paramount. Explain your approach in plain language, breaking down complex processes into clear, sequential steps that anyone could follow. Be precise about how you'll deliver each aspect of the project – vague assurances won't win tenders, but detailed explanations of your processes will build confidence in your capability.

Your method statement must include essential information such as project details, resource allocation, and timelines. These elements should be presented with specific details rather than general statements. For instance, don't simply state that qualified staff will be assigned; name key personnel and outline their relevant experience and qualifications. Similarly, when discussing timelines, include specific milestones and explain how you'll ensure deadlines are met even if challenges arise.

The most compelling method statements are specific and measurable. Rather than making broad claims about quality or efficiency, provide concrete metrics and detailed procedures. This might include the frequency of quality inspections, the specific checklists used, or the response times for addressing issues. This level of detail demonstrates that you've thoroughly considered how to deliver the project and have established robust processes to ensure success.

Supporting your methodology with evidence strengthens your credibility significantly. Reference previous projects where you've successfully implemented similar approaches, including specific outcomes achieved. If you hold relevant certifications or accreditations, explain how these underpin your methodology and benefit the client. This evidence-based approach transforms your method statement from a theoretical document into a proven formula for success.

Visual elements can transform a dense method statement into a more accessible and memorable document. Consider where flowcharts might clarify decision processes, diagrams could illustrate technical approaches, or tables might summarise information effectively. Well-designed visuals not only improve understanding but also demonstrate your ability to communicate complex information clearly – an important skill in project delivery.

Before submission, have both technical experts and bid specialists review your method statement. Technical experts can verify accuracy and identify any gaps, while bid specialists can assess how well your response addresses the evaluation criteria. This dual review process ensures your method statement is both technically sound and strategically positioned to score highly.

Tailoring the Method Statement to Meet Tender Requirements

Creating a generic method statement and repurposing it for different tenders rarely leads to success. Each tender response requires careful customisation to address the specific requirements and priorities of the client. This begins with adopting the client's terminology and phrasing. If they refer to "service users" rather than "customers," mirror this language throughout your response. This subtle alignment signals that you understand their environment and perspective.

Understanding the evaluation criteria is essential for maximising your score. If you know that sustainability accounts for 20% of the available marks, you should devote proportionate attention to explaining your sustainable approaches in detail. Study the scoring methodology to understand what constitutes a top-scoring answer, then ensure your response meets these standards across all criteria.

Clients are increasingly looking for evidence rather than assertions. Whenever possible, quantify the effectiveness of your approach with specific metrics from comparable projects. Instead of claiming that your quality management system is effective, state that it reduced defects by 32% on similar projects or delivered 98% first-time acceptance rates. These tangible metrics provide evaluators with confidence in your capabilities and set your response apart from competitors who make only general claims.

Relevant experience adds credibility to your method statement, particularly when you can draw parallels between previous projects and the current tender. Focus on aspects most relevant to the client's specific requirements, explaining how lessons learned from previous work will benefit this project. This demonstrates not only capability but also a commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge transfer between projects.

Innovation can be a powerful differentiator in competitive tenders, but only when it delivers tangible benefits to the client. If you propose innovative approaches or technologies, clearly explain the advantages they offer over conventional methods and how they specifically benefit this project. Whether the innovation improves safety, reduces costs, or enhances quality, make the connection explicit so evaluators understand its value.

Highlighting Health and Safety Protocols

Health and safety considerations are fundamental to any method statement, particularly in high-risk industries like construction. Demonstrating your knowledge of relevant regulations shows that safety is embedded in your approach. Reference specific legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 or the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 where appropriate, explaining how your methodology ensures compliance with these requirements.

A robust safety management system forms the backbone of your health and safety approach. Describe your safety governance structure, including the roles and responsibilities of key personnel. Explain how safety is managed at both strategic and operational levels, with clear reporting lines and oversight mechanisms. This comprehensive approach demonstrates that safety is not merely a procedural consideration but an integral part of your organisational culture.

Different tasks present different risks, and your method statement should acknowledge this with tailored control measures for each significant hazard. Follow the established hierarchy of controls, beginning with elimination or substitution where possible, then engineering controls, administrative measures, and finally personal protective equipment. For each risk, explain your specific approach; for example, instead of simply stating that work at height risks will be managed, detail the temporary edge protection systems you'll install, the permit-to-work system you'll implement, and the specific fall arrest equipment you'll provide.

Effective safety management requires ongoing monitoring and oversight. Detail your inspection regimes, safety audits, and compliance checks, explaining who will conduct them, how frequently, and what they'll cover. Equally important is your process for addressing any non-conformances identified, including corrective action procedures and escalation protocols. This demonstrates that your safety management is active and responsive rather than simply documented.

Even with the best preventative measures, emergencies can occur. Your method statement should include comprehensive emergency response procedures tailored to the specific project environment. Detail your first aid provisions, evacuation procedures, and incident reporting protocols. Explain how these procedures will be communicated to all workers and tested to ensure effectiveness. This level of preparedness reassures clients that you can manage unexpected situations safely and efficiently.

Addressing Specific Client Needs and Expectations

Beyond the technical aspects of project delivery, clients often have underlying strategic objectives that your method statement should address. Research the client's published strategic goals and explicitly connect your methodology to these broader aims. This might include sustainability targets, community benefits, or digital transformation initiatives. By demonstrating this alignment, you show that you understand not just what the client wants but why they want it.

Tender documents often highlight specific challenges or past issues that have prompted the procurement. These concerns represent valuable insights into the client's priorities and should be directly addressed in your method statement. Explicitly explain how your methodology mitigates these particular concerns, providing evidence from similar situations where possible. This targeted approach shows that you've listened carefully to the client's needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.

Successful project delivery depends on effective stakeholder management. Outline your approach to managing relationships with all relevant parties, from the client's team to end users, regulatory bodies, and the wider community. Describe your communication methods, explaining what information will be shared, how frequently, and through what channels. This comprehensive stakeholder approach demonstrates your understanding of the project's broader context and your ability to navigate complex relationships successfully.

Clients are increasingly looking for value beyond the minimum requirements. Describe specific ways your approach adds value, whether through knowledge transfer to the client's team, future-proofing solutions for long-term benefit, or operational efficiencies that reduce ongoing costs. Quantify this added value where possible, helping evaluators understand the return on investment your approach offers compared to competitors.

The best method statements acknowledge that no process is perfect and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. Detail how you'll capture lessons learned throughout the project, implement improvements in real-time, and share insights with the wider team. This reflective approach shows that you're focused not just on delivering this project successfully but on constantly enhancing your capabilities for future work.

Why Are Method Statements Important for Tenders?

Method statements play a crucial role in the tendering process. They showcase your expertise, demonstrate your approach, and provide clients with confidence in your ability to deliver the project successfully.

Ensuring Compliance with Safety and Legal Standards

Method statements help you prove your commitment to safety and legal compliance. They outline how you'll meet health and safety requirements and adhere to relevant regulations. This is the minimum expectations for clients assessing your bid.

You'll need to detail specific safety measures for each task. Include information on personal protective equipment, training, and emergency procedures. Address potential hazards and explain how you'll mitigate risks.

Showing a thorough understanding of safety standards reassures clients that you prioritise worker and public safety. This can give you a competitive edge in the tender process.

Demonstrating Risk Management and Quality Control

Your method statement should highlight your risk management approach. Identify potential project risks and explain how you'll address them. This shows clients you've thought through potential issues.

Include your quality control processes. Describe how you'll maintain high standards throughout the project. Mention any relevant certifications or accreditations your company holds.

Explain your monitoring and reporting procedures. How will you track progress and ensure quality? By detailing these aspects, you demonstrate your commitment to delivering a high-quality project.

Providing a Detailed Plan for Project Execution

A comprehensive method statement outlines your step-by-step approach to completing the project. Break down the work into clear, manageable tasks. Explain the resources, equipment, and personnel required for each stage.

Include timelines and milestones to show how you'll meet project deadlines. Describe your communication strategy with clients and stakeholders. This helps clients visualise how you'll manage the project effectively and increases assurance.

Address any specific client requirements or project challenges. By providing a detailed execution plan, you instil confidence in your ability to deliver the project successfully and efficiently.

How Thornton & Lowe Can Help

Thornton & Lowe can help businesses write effective method statements as part of their bid writing and bid management services. As a bid writing consultancy, we have a team of technical bid writers and bid managers who have worked on hundreds of tenders and proposals that include method statements each year.

While Thornton & Lowe are not health and safety consultants, our extensive experience in bid writing allows us to assist clients in creating clear, concise, and compelling method statements that are essential components of successful bids. We understand that a method statement describes the steps needed to complete a job safely, lists the risks involved, and outlines the safety measures to control them.

If your business needs support in writing method statements as part of a bid or tender submission, contact us today - hello@thorntonandlowe.com / 01204 238046.

The Difference Between a Method Statement and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Typically, the main difference between a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and a Method Statement is their scope and purpose.

A SOP is a set of step-by-step instructions that outline how to perform a routine task consistently across an organisation. It ensures that tasks are carried out to the same standard, regardless of who performs them. While a Method Statement is a project-specific document that describes how a particular task will be carried out safely and efficiently, considering the unique risks and requirements of the project. It is commonly used in industries such as construction to demonstrate compliance with health and safety regulations.

SOPs are organisation-wide and focus on consistency, while Method Statements are project-specific and prioritise safety.

Key Components of a Method Statement

A method statement contains several common and important elements:

Title and Purpose of the Task

The title and purpose section sets the stage for the entire method statement. It clearly identifies the specific task or project being addressed. This part should include:

• Project name
• Site address
• Company details (name, logo, address)
• Start and end dates

The purpose outlines the main objectives and goals of the task. It explains why the work is necessary and what it aims to achieve. This helps workers understand the importance of their role in the overall project.

Scope of Work

The scope of work defines the boundaries of the task. It outlines:

• What is included in the work
• What is not included
• Any limitations or constraints

This section helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures all parties have a clear understanding of the work to be done. It may also mention any relevant standards or regulations that must be followed.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Completing the Task

This is the heart of the method statement. It breaks down the task into logical, manageable steps. Each step should be:

• Clear and concise
• In chronological order
• Detailed enough for workers to follow easily

Use bullet points or numbered lists to make the steps easy to read. Include any specific techniques or methods to be used. If certain steps require extra care or attention, highlight them.

Risk Assessment and Safety Measures

Safety is paramount in any project. This section identifies potential hazards and outlines measures to mitigate risks. It should include:

• A list of identified risks
• Control measures for each risk
• Emergency procedures
• Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Be specific about safety protocols. For example, "Wear safety goggles when using power tools" is better than "Use appropriate PPE".

Resources and Equipment Required

List all the tools, materials, and equipment needed to complete the task. This might include:

• Hand tools
• Power tools
• Specialised equipment
• Materials and supplies
• Vehicles or machinery

Specify any certifications or inspections required for equipment use. Include details on proper storage and handling of materials.

Personnel Involved and their Responsibilities

This section outlines who will be involved in the task and what their roles are. Include:

• Job titles and names (if known)
• Required qualifications or certifications
• Specific responsibilities for each role
• Chain of command or reporting structure

Clearly defining roles helps prevent confusion and ensures everyone knows what's expected of them.

Monitoring, Review, and Quality Assurance

Explain how the work will be monitored and reviewed to ensure it meets the required standards. This section should cover:

• Quality control measures
• Inspection points during the process
• Final review procedures
• Documentation requirements

Include any specific quality standards that must be met. Outline the process for addressing and correcting any issues that arise during the work.

Method Statement Templates and Best Practices

Templates and best practices can streamline the process of creating effective method statements. They help ensure you include all crucial elements while avoiding common mistakes.

Using Method Statement Templates to Save Time

Method statement templates provide a structured framework for organising key information. They typically include sections for:

• Project details
• Task description
• Required resources
• Step-by-step procedures
• Risk assessments
• Safety measures

Using templates can significantly reduce the time needed to create a method statement. They ensure you don't overlook important details and maintain consistency across projects.

To get started, choose a template that aligns with your industry and project type. Customise it to fit your specific needs, adding or removing sections as necessary.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Writing Method Statements

When crafting method statements, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Vague or unclear language
• Insufficient detail in procedures
• Overlooking potential risks
• Failing to update for project changes
• Neglecting to include all relevant stakeholders

To avoid these pitfalls, use clear, concise language and provide specific details for each step. Regularly review and update your method statements as the project progresses.

Involve team members and subject matter experts in the creation process. Their input can help identify potential issues and ensure all aspects of the task are covered.

How to Customise a Template for Your Project or Tender

To tailor a template to your specific needs:

1. Review the template thoroughly
2. Identify sections that need modification
3. Add project-specific details and requirements
4. Remove irrelevant sections
5. Incorporate company branding and style

Adapt the risk assessment section to address the unique hazards of your project. Be thorough in outlining safety measures and emergency procedures.

Remember to keep your customised template flexible. You may need to adjust it further as you use it for different projects or tenders.

Method of Statement

In the context of tenders, particularly within construction and related industries, ‘Method of Statement’ is often used as a heading for quality questions that require you to describe how a project will be delivered. While the term originates from health and safety planning on site, its use in procurement has evolved. Buyers now expect this section to go beyond risk management, covering your overall approach to delivering the contract.

A Method of Statement in a tender should bring together both the practical steps and the wider project strategy. It demonstrates that you understand the scope, have planned the work in detail, and can deliver safely, efficiently, and to the required standard. In many cases, it becomes the buyer’s reference point for how you will manage people, timeframes, risks, communication, and quality.

Including a Method of Statement in your tender submission is an opportunity to show clarity of thinking and control. It helps the evaluator visualise how the project will be delivered in real terms and builds trust in your ability to manage the contract. A well-structured Method of Statement can directly contribute to a stronger score in the quality assessment.

Method Statement Template (example)

Common Tender Method Statements: Template and Structure

The following table provides a structured guide for completing a tender method statement, including sections for answering method statement questions, indicating word count, and adding relevant evidence. This template can help you provide clear, structured answers while ensuring you meet the tender requirements and address social value elements.

How to Use This Template

• Tailor your bid answers to the specific tender requirements, ensuring all sections are aligned with the expectations outlined in the bid documents.
• Provide evidence wherever possible, demonstrating past performance, certifications, and commitments to both quality and social value.
• Consider social value not only as a separate section but as part of your overall project approach, showing how your company benefits the local economy, community, and environment.

This template ensures that each key area of the tender method statement is addressed clearly and concisely, helping your bid stand out while complying with the tender's requirements.

Digital Transformation: Boosting Method Statement Templates into Work Winning Tools!

Transitioning from traditional paper-based documents to digital platforms allows you to work more efficiently and in a format which clients increasingly require!

Our Tender Library software uses your template method statement answers - allow you to find them quickly and tailor quickly using AI (if you prefer). It not only provides a robust repository of previous method statements but also helps you maximise the performance of your existing documents. With Tender Library, you can:

• Streamline Template Management: Quickly retrieve and update past method statements to suit current project needs.
• Enhance Collaboration: Facilitate real-time team collaboration, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned and informed.
• Improve Accuracy: Reduce errors and oversights with integrated checklists, automated version control, and standardised formats.
• Boost Efficiency: Save time by customising digital templates for each project or tender, allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality outcomes.

Explore more about our Bid Management Software here.