SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement – a UK-wide initiative designed to simplify health and safety compliance for businesses, especially in high-risk sectors such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing.
Instead of completing multiple assessments for different accreditation schemes, SSIP streamlines the process through mutual recognition between its members.
Launched in 2009, SSIP ensures that health and safety assessments meet core H&S criteria, acting as a benchmark for best practices and helping companies prove they are safe to work with.
Is SSIP a Legal Requirement?
No, SSIP is not a legal requirement. However, the health and safety standards it promotes are. The Construction, Design and Management Regulations 2015 (CDM2015) is the legal framework, ensuring all construction work is carried out safely with minimal risk.
SSIP was introduced in 2009 to help standardise how these legal duties are assessed across industries (particularly in high-risk sectors). So, no, SSIP is not mandatory – it is simply a recognised way to demonstrate compliance with existing legal obligations.
For many companies, especially contractors bidding for public sector or large private projects, having an SSIP accreditation (such as CHAS or SafeContractor) is often a prerequisite to winning work, even if it’s not legally required.
Benefits of Becoming SSIP-Certified
There are many practical and commercial benefits of joining an SSIP accreditation scheme, such as:
- Reduced paperwork – You don’t need to submit multiple assessments to different schemes
- Cost savings – You can save money by avoiding duplicate applications
- Improved reputation – SSIP proves your business is serious about health and safety
- Increased opportunities – You’ll meet pre-qualification requirements for more contracts
- Client confidence – You can show you’re a safe, compliant contractor
Looking to get SSIP-certified? Get in touch with us today!
SSIP Members
SSIP isn’t a scheme in itself. Instead, it’s an umbrella body made up of member schemes that conduct health and safety assessments. Some members of SSIP include:
…and more.
When you have been certified by an SSIP member, you are considered SSIP-accredited. This means you can demonstrate your compliance across a range of procurement platforms.
CHAS vs SafeContractor: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | CHAS | SafeContractor |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme | Alcumus SafeContractor |
| Ideal For | Public sector work, councils, housing associations | Private sector clients, retailers, facilities management companies |
| Assessment Areas | Health & safety (core), with optional add-ons (e.g. environmental, PAS91) | Health & safety, with strong focus on sustainability and ethical practices |
| Reputation | Highly recognised by public buyers | Widely recognised by corporate and retail clients |
| Cost | Varies based on package but generally affordable | Slightly higher, but includes more tailored support |
| SSIP Approved? | Yes ✓ | Yes ✓ |
CHAS and SafeContractor are both SSIP member schemes but cater to slightly different needs.
- CHAS is one of the most recognised names in the industry and is often a requirement for public-sector work
- SafeContractor is a more popular choice among private-sector clients
Whichever you choose, both meet SSIP core criteria and provide valid certification.
What Does an SSIP Assessment Involve?
An SSIP assessment involves demonstrating your compliance with key health and safety requirements. This might include:
- Clear health and safety policies
- Relevant insurance
- Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)
- Accident reporting procedures
- Training and qualifications
The specific documentation you need to provide might vary between member schemes, but all follow SSIP’s standardised approach.
Which Businesses Benefit from an SSIP Certificate?
SSIP is beneficial for high-risk industries such as:
- Construction
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Recruitment
- Agriculture
These sectors face daily health and safety challenges, so having an SSIP accreditation helps demonstrate that appropriate measures are in place to manage risk.
Although SSIP is not legally required for all businesses, it can be a prerequisite when bidding for large contracts.
Many clients and contractors now expect SSIP certification as proof of a company’s commitment to health and safety compliance.
How Can I Prepare My Business for an SSIP Assessment?
Getting ready for your SSIP assessment doesn’t need to be stressful. Here are a few steps to help you prepare:
- Review your current health and safety documents
- Make sure that your training records and insurance certificates are up to date
- Carry out internal audits or mock assessments
- Seek professional support from ourselves here at Beaconrisk
Ready to Become SSIP Certified?
Here at Beaconrisk, your safety is our number one priority. We specialise in accreditation support – helping you secure SSIP certification quickly and confidently.
Formed in 2009, our aim is to provide honest, straightforward and fully comprehensive health and safety services at an affordable price.
Whether you’re applying for CHAS, SafeContractor, Constructionline or another scheme, our team of health and safety consultants can guide you through the process.
We also offer e-learning, consultancy, and documentation support to ensure your business is always compliant and ready for procurement opportunities.
Call us on 0151 647 8658 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to get started today.