Every construction project needs a construction phase plan, however small. Regulation 12 of CDM 2015 says it must set out the health and safety arrangements and site rules for the project, and it must be drawn up before the site is set up. It should be proportionate: a few pages for a simple job, more for a complex one.
Who writes it and when
The principal contractor draws it up during the pre-construction phase, before setting up the site. Where there is only one contractor, that contractor does it. The principal designer helps by providing relevant information, including the client’s pre-construction information and information from designers. The client must make sure a plan is in place before the construction phase begins, and the principal contractor keeps it reviewed and updated throughout the project.
What to include
- A description of the project: what, where, key dates, the client, designers and contractors, and existing information about the site.
- How the work will be managed: the site team and responsibilities, site rules, coordinating and consulting contractors and workers, induction, welfare, emergency arrangements, first aid, accident reporting and site security.
- How significant site risks will be controlled, for example work at height, excavations, lifting, temporary works, buried and overhead services, traffic and vehicle movements, hazardous substances, noise, dust and vibration.
- Specific measures for any work involving the particular risks listed in Schedule 3 of the regulations.
- How information for the health and safety file will be collected and handed over.
Site rules
HSE suggests site rules cover topics such as personal protective equipment, radios and mobile phones, smoking, restricted areas, hot works, traffic management, pedestrian routes, site tidiness, fire prevention, permits to work and emergency arrangements.
Keep it proportionate and live
- Write it for this site: cut anything from a template that does not apply.
- Put the content where people use it: the induction, the site rules at sign-in, the noticeboard.
- Review it when the work changes, such as a new phase, a new high-risk activity or new contractors, and keep track of the version.
- Make sure contractors’ RAMS fit the plan’s arrangements and site rules.
Common gaps
- Emergency arrangements without a named assembly point, the nearest A&E, or a rescue plan for work at height and confined spaces.
- Nothing on keeping the site secure out of hours.
- Welfare described in general terms rather than what is actually provided.
- A plan written once and never updated.
Frequently asked questions
Does a small job need a construction phase plan?
Yes. Every project needs one, whatever its size, but for small, simple work it can be short. HSE’s free CDM Wizard app helps produce one for small projects.
Is the construction phase plan the same as the health and safety file?
No. The plan covers how health and safety is managed while the work is done. The file holds the information someone will need later to maintain, alter, clean or demolish the structure safely.
Does the client have to approve the plan?
The client must make sure one is drawn up before the construction phase begins. Many clients also review it, and some contracts require their approval.
This guide is general information for UK businesses, not legal advice. Check the current regulations and HSE guidance at hse.gov.uk, and take professional advice for your situation.