FIDIC / Legal Reference: FIDIC Red Book Clause 4.1 — Contractor’s Documents
A written document prepared by the contractor describing the planned approach, sequence, resources, and health and safety measures for executing a specific element of the Works. Method statements must be submitted to the Engineer for review and, in some cases, approval before the relevant work commences.
What it means in practice
Method statements are required for activities involving particular complexity, safety risk, or technical sensitivity — such as deep excavations, piling, demolition, lifting operations, confined space working, and work near live services.
If the Engineer requires the contractor to change its proposed method — for example, using a different excavation technique or a larger crane — and the change adds cost, this may constitute a Variation under Clause 13. The contractor should give notice of additional cost under Clause 20.
Where disputes arise
Disputes arise where the Engineer rejects a method statement on grounds that go beyond ensuring contract compliance — for example, requiring a more expensive method than the contractor proposed. If the Engineer’s intervention is not technically justified by the contract, the additional cost should be recoverable as a Variation.
UAE Context
In UAE construction, method statements are increasingly required by health and safety regulations and authority inspectors for activities conducted in proximity to existing infrastructure, utilities, or public areas.
Related terms
Method statement disputes and associated Variation claims are managed by e-Basel as part of our construction claims advisory services across UAE projects.
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