Whether it’s a refurbishment or the construction of a building extension, making alterations to your premises can be a key part of the growth of your business.

One of the biggest aspects to account for when having work done on your venue is compliance with the CDM regulations (CDM 15).

“But I’m not a construction company, what’s this got to do with me?”

The CDM regulations (CDM 15) apply to anyone who is having construction work of any kind on their premises. If you’re the company or individual paying for the work to be carried out, you’re seen as the Client.

The law understands that the client is most likely not a construction expert and thus duties are handed down to the Principal Contractor and the Principal Designer. However, this doesn’t mean that there’s no responsibility for the client.

So, what does this mean?

As the client you have a specific set of duties. These duties include but are not limited to:

·       Notifying the HSE of the project if applicable.

·       Appointing a Principal Contractor and Principal Designer.

·       Ensuring risks are properly managed and safety management systems are in place.

·       Ensuring there are adequate welfare facilities on site – E.G – Toilets.

·       Ensuring that the Construction Phase Plan is efficiently prepared before work starts.

·       Providing the Principal Contractor and Principal Designer of any pre-existing risks on site.

We have a full detailed list of the client’s duties under the CDM regulations.

Construction Phase Plan

Before any construction work takes place, you need to make sure the contractor you have appointed has created the Construction Phase Plan, and that it’s relevant and appropriate to the work that will take place. You may want to bring in an experienced professional to support you with this.

More information on the Construction Phase Plan?

If you would like to know more about managing construction health and safety then please feel free to drop us a line for an informal chat.

For more information on the duties of the Client, call 0330 0948 848 (Option 1).