How to Write a Method Statement for Painting and Decorating

Why painting and decorating needs a proper method statement

Painting and decorating looks low-risk compared to groundworks or demolition, and that's exactly why it catches people out. Solvent-based paints, spray equipment, working on scaffolding or tower platforms, confined spaces like plant rooms — all of it carries real hazard. If you're a contractor taking on painting work for a principal contractor or client, you'll almost certainly be asked for a method statement before you're allowed on site.

This guide walks you through exactly what to put in one, section by section, in plain English.

What a method statement for painting and decorating should include

1. Project details and scope of work

Start with the basics: project name, site address, the name of your company, the date, and who authored the document. Then describe the scope clearly. Don't just write "painting works" — be specific.

• What surfaces are being painted (walls, steelwork, render, timber, etc.)
• What coatings or products are being used (water-based emulsion, epoxy, gloss, fire-retardant paint, etc.)
• Whether spray application, brush or roller is being used
• Interior or exterior, and at what height
• Expected duration and sequence of works

The scope section stops arguments later. If your method statement says "internal emulsion to first floor walls" and someone asks why you weren't prepared for external steelwork painting, you've got a clear answer.

2. The people doing the work

List the roles involved — site supervisor, painters, labourers. Note any relevant qualifications or training, particularly if spraying is involved (spray operatives should have specific training and may need respiratory protective equipment face-fit testing). If COSHH assessments are required for specific products, note who has completed them and where those records are held.

3. Plant, equipment and materials

List the tools and equipment being used:

• Airless spray units or HVLP systems
• Brushes, rollers, extension poles
• Access equipment — stepladders, tower scaffolds, mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs)
• Mixing equipment, thinners, cleaning solvents
• Dust sheets, masking tape, surface preparation tools

For access equipment, state the type and confirm it will be used in accordance with manufacturer guidance and relevant training (PASMA for tower scaffolds, IPAF for MEWPs).

4. Sequence of operations

This is the heart of the method statement. Walk through the work step by step in the order it will actually happen. A typical sequence for internal painting might look like this:

1. Clear the work area and erect dust protection or containment where needed
2. Prepare surfaces — fill, sand, prime as required
3. Mask adjacent surfaces and protect flooring
4. Apply first coat; allow to dry per manufacturer's stated drying times
5. Inspect and rub down if required
6. Apply second coat
7. Remove masking and protection
8. Clean tools and dispose of waste correctly

If spraying is involved, add steps around exclusion zones, ventilation checks, and warning signage before and after spray operations.

5. Hazards and control measures

This section is where most method statements fall short — people list hazards but forget to write down what they're actually doing about them. For each hazard, state the control measure clearly.

Common hazards in painting and decorating work:

• Inhalation of fumes or spray mist — control with adequate ventilation, forced extraction if indoors, and appropriate RPE (half-face respirator with A1 or A2 filter for solvent-based products)
• Skin and eye contact with chemicals — nitrile gloves, safety glasses or goggles, barrier cream
• Falls from height — use correct access equipment for the task, never overreach, inspect towers before each use
• Slips and trips — keep walkways clear, secure dust sheets, use wet floor signage where floors are wet after cleaning
• Fire risk from flammable materials — no ignition sources when using solvent-based products, store materials in a fire-safe cabinet, have a suitable extinguisher to hand
• Manual handling of paint containers — use trolleys or decant into smaller containers for large volumes

6. PPE requirements

List the minimum PPE required for the task. Don't just copy a generic list — match it to the actual work. For a painter doing water-based emulsion with a roller, you need less than someone spray-applying a two-pack epoxy. Be honest about what the job demands.

Typical PPE for painting and decorating:

• Safety footwear (steel toecap)
• Gloves appropriate to the chemical hazard
• Eye protection (goggles for spray work, safety glasses for brush and roller)
• RPE — type depends on the product; always check the safety data sheet (SDS)
• Disposable coveralls for spray operations

7. Ventilation and environmental controls

Painting in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces can build up solvent concentrations quickly. Your method statement should state what ventilation measures are in place — natural cross-ventilation (windows and doors open), mechanical ventilation, or forced extraction using portable fans. If you're working in a confined or semi-confined space, you may need atmospheric monitoring.

Also consider what happens to waste — empty tins, used rags, solvent-contaminated materials. These have specific disposal requirements and shouldn't go in a general skip.

8. Emergency procedures

Keep this section short but complete:

• Location of first aid kit and first aider on site
• What to do in the event of a chemical spill (contain, ventilate, refer to SDS)
• Fire evacuation procedure and assembly point
• Who to contact if someone is overcome by fumes

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common problem with painting method statements is that they're too generic. A document that says "follow safe working practices at all times" tells an inspector or principal contractor nothing. Be specific about the products, the environment, and the controls you're putting in place.

Another frequent error is ignoring the COSHH angle entirely. Every product you use on site should have a safety data sheet, and your method statement should reference the relevant COSHH assessment. If you're using a fire-retardant intumescent coating, a two-pack epoxy or a lead-based paint removal scenario, this becomes even more important.

Finally, don't forget to review and update the document if the scope changes. If the client adds steelwork painting to a contract that was originally just internal walls, the method statement needs revisiting.

A faster way to produce your method statement on site

If you're a painting contractor or site supervisor who needs to get documents turned around quickly — especially when a principal contractor is waiting — Safety Parrot lets you take photos of the work area and generate a structured method statement in seconds. It's useful when you're on site without access to your office templates and need something professional and printable fast.

Summary

A method statement for painting and decorating should cover: scope of work, personnel and their competencies, equipment and materials, step-by-step sequence, hazards with specific controls, PPE, ventilation, and emergency arrangements. Keep it specific to the actual job, reference your product safety data sheets, and update it if the scope changes. A document that reflects the real work is what protects you, your workers, and your contract.