News
Health and Safety Update (April 2009)
HSE Guide to Developing Property
The Health and Safety Executive has developed and published new
guidance for individuals and businesses who are involved in the
property developing business. In particular, the guidance
highlights the legal duties that anyone developing property and
having construction or building work carried out must follow
(excluding domestic clients) under the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007).
The new guidance is featured on the HSE website http://www.hse.gov.uk/ and includes a
quick guide that can be downloaded as well as detailed information
on three specific areas of responsibility:
- get the right people for the job;
- know your building;
- plan a successful project.
There is a detailed excerpt from the CDM Regulations, giving
guidance on your legal responsibilities as a client under the CDM
Regulations – who needs to know about the Regulations, when
they apply to construction and building < projects, and the main
responsibilities they impose on those carrying out projects such as
these.
There is also a Frequently Asked Questions section and some Case
Studies for information.
Get the Right People for the Job
You need to make sure that the people you employ to carry out
the work are competent and have the resources necessary to do the
job. To be regarded as competent, the organisation/individual
must have sufficient knowledge of the specific tasks to be
undertaken and the risks which the work will entail. As well as
this, they will need to have sufficient experience and ability to
carry out their duties in relation to the project, to be able to
realise their limitations and take appropriate action in order to
prevent harm to those carrying out construction work, or those
affected by the work.
Know Your Building
In order to ensure the building is safe to build, safe to use and
safe to maintain, you will need to provide adequate information to
the construction team. The scope of works and intended use of the
building are essential requirements, as well as details of any
existing structures or hazards, such as asbestos. The amount of
information necessary should be proportionate to the risk of the
work in question.
Plan a Successful Project
In planning a successful project it is essential to ensure that
enough time is allowed for the design, planning and construction
work – a realistic timescale must be identified. You and your team
must work together to ensure everyone knows what is expected of
them. The project must be adequately managed throughout, and it is
vital to ensure that the work is carried out safely and without
risks to health. Adequate welfare facilities are also necessary,
and should be put in place prior to work starting.
We at RBS Mentor Services are here to help you with compliance
regarding the CDM Regulations - just call the 24/7 advice line or
your dedicated consultant for advice.