Construction - CDM Coordinator

It is now a little over a year since the latest CDM Regulations came into force, introducing the concept of a CDM Coordinator.

Over the past 12 months we have operated in the role of CDM Coordinator for a variety of construction projects, from retail to scientific research, from major government investment to corporate office extensions.

We thought it might be useful, therefore, to review some of our experiences whilst operating under the new regulations and some of the lessons we have learned.

Aim to be Realistic

Our reputation has been built on being proactive to ensure our Clients comply with their statutory duties. We have achieved this by addressing hazards and risk in a realistic way rather than becoming bogged down in bureaucracy or unnecessarily rigid ideas or rules.

Consequently, as the Client's key advisor on matters of health and safety, the CDM Coordinator needs to work in close liaison with the Design Team, the Construction Team and any others involved with the project.

Beginning with the early ideas, we work with designers to 'design out' hazards wherever possible. Where it is not practicable to eliminate hazards, we concentrate on minimising the effects of residual risks as they affect the Construction team and subsequently those involved with maintaining, cleaning or working in the completed building.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

A key activity for the CDM Coordinator is managing information about the entire project. We put in place a system to effectively collate, review and distribute relevant health and safety information to all parties.

We agree appropriate formats and styles for consistent recording of information that everyone can understand and we agree procedures for handling design changes that occur at any stage of construction.

In practical terms, this means that the 'Pre-Construction Information', the 'Design Hazard Management Register' and the 'Health and Safety File' must all provide the right information to the right people at the right times.

To be of most value, we place particular emphasis on those aspects that are unusual, difficult to manage or which may not be obvious to a competent contractor.

For larger projects, we recommend use of an on-line Document Management System to provide the most efficient communication. This ensures immediate access for everyone to all the latest design information.

By providing a single source of up-to-date information, which is accessed and reviewed by all interested parties, such an on-line system eventually contains virtually all the information required for the 'Project Health and Safety File'.

CDM Coordinator Defined

Our approach has been developed from a highly practical understanding and interpretation of the CDM Regulations and involves:

First and foremost, ensuring our Clients receive proactive advice and practical assistance from the start and throughout the term of the contract
Specifically, our clients need assurance in regard to complying with their legal duties under the Regulations, along with Appendix 4 of the associated Approved Code of Practice (ACoP)
Providing advice on competency aspects of client appointments.
Promoting responsible decision taking at Design and Construction stages in regard to risk consequences
Acting as facilitator to ensure the best possible cooperation and coordination between all teams, including the Design Team and the Construction Team.
Developing a strategy for ensuring effective and efficient flow of information between all parties.
Supporting the Client when implementing appropriate arrangements to ensure safety throughout the project
Advising our Clients on the suitability and sufficiency of the 'Construction Phase Health and Safety Plan' as developed by the Principal Contractor.
Preparing and maintaining the ‘Health and Safety File’.

Construction Phase Support

On major projects, although not a legal requirement for CDM Coordinators, we assist our Clients in meeting their obligations during the Construction Phase when they are responsible for having suitable and sufficient arrangements in place for managing Health and Safety.

As part of this, we undertake Construction Site Safety Reviews and we monitor the Construction Phase, providing ongoing advice and support on the practical aspects of Health and Safety.

Be Prepared

Our aim in this article has been to acquaint you with the broad scope of what is required under the CDM Regulations and, more particularly, the need to call on the services of a CDM Coordinator to advise and guide you on your legal duties throughout the project.

This is not a theoretical treatise, but is based on personal practical experience with a number of highly successful contracts.

Given the safety record of the UK Construction Industry, it is vital when embarking on a Construction project that you have access to the best possible advice and support.

Contact EDP HS&E Consultants for all your health, safety and environment needs. We can check your current arrangements and advise you about any changes or improvements you need to make.

To discuss your requirements, without any obligation on your part, please gives us a call on 01744 766000 or complete the Enquiry Form on our website.

In addition to our regular newsletters, you can also keep up with the latest information from EDP by visiting our blog at http://edp-uk.blogspot.com/