Before we discuss when a construction phase plan is required, it is important that you have a brief understanding of the basics behind what a construction plan is.
A construction phase plan is an important document that details the health and safety risks associated with the construction phase of a project and any control measures required to minimise any risks.
This document is put in place to reduce (or completely eliminate) any risks associated with a construction project. It is designed to help principal contractors alongside others involved in projects to manage, plan and work safely. It is also a legal requirement for your project to have a thorough plan.
Thorough planning not only improves organisation but can significantly lower any health and safety risks, and help you manage the situation better in the event of a risk.
A construction phase plan is required on all construction projects - no matter the size. This is put in place to ensure your safety. For more information about when you need a construction phase plan and more, read on.
When Do You Need a Construction Phase Plan?
No matter the type or size of the construction projects, having a construction phase plan in place at all times is a legal requirement. Any project that involves renovation, demolition, maintenance or repair means you will need a CPP before you can start.
It is a legal requirement under the Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations to have a CPP plan in place at all times. Whether work is being carried out on a residential property or an industrial project, it is vital that you have a construction phase plan in place.
CPPs must be completed before any construction work begins on site. Without this, you can’t legally start working on projects. This is so any risks and control measures can be discussed within the project teams before starting work. This is vital to ensure that workers aren't exposed to any unnecessary risks.
What Does a Construction Phase Plan Include?
A CPP covers all legal requirements and generally includes five sections. Firstly, you have a project description. This section should be used to explain what project it is you are carrying out as well as a list of the project manager's team. This usually includes the client, subcontractors, contractors, consultants, key suppliers and more.
Next, you have the management of the work. This section should be used to set out the management arrangements for the project as well as outline the health and safety procedures that are put in place. This should include site rules, responsibilities and key management procedures.
Throughout the third section, you have the arrangements for controlling significant site risks. Any possible site risks should be thoroughly detailed alongside the risks to minimise or completely eliminate them.
You should take precautions when removing hazardous substances, as well as during manual handling, UV radiation or noise exposure. The CPP should also take into consideration the safety of the public and traffic management.
Next, we have the health and safety file. This is where the health and safety file’s format should be documented in order to ensure people know how to access the information.
Finally, we have significant design and construction hazards. This section is needed in the event of changes to the design or significant risks. This section should be used to outline suggested work methods and control measures.
Who is Responsible For Creating The CPP?
The responsibility of the CPP falls upon the project’s principal contractor. This is an individual or organisation that is appointed to manage and control the project's construction stage. If in certain circumstances there is only one contractor, then the responsibility falls to the sole contractor.
Although the principal contractor is primarily responsible for CPP compliance, the designers and clients must also ensure that they provide the relevant information in support of the plan.
Gain The Right Accreditation With Beaconrisk
Here at Beaconrisk, we offer services such as e-learning courses and accreditations. An example of an accreditation we offer is the CHAS Accreditation. This accreditation aims to save you time and money during the application process when applying for work. CHAS also helps you grow, but how is this? Read our blog to find out!
The areas which CHAS covers are health and safety training, access to competent health and safety advice and contractor management and competence.
Other accreditations such as Constructionline or SafeContractor may be more fitting for you - contact us today if you are interested in gaining accreditation for your construction company.
For more information on the services we offer, make sure to check out our e-learning section on our website!