CDM Regulations Revised for 2007
The Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations have been revised and expanded and will come into force on 1st April 2007. From this date it is understood that all persons with responsibilities will be deemed to have been appointed under these new regulations - there is no transition date except for the notifications and plans. In light of these very significant changes and additional duties it is advised that all Clients, Designers, Contractors, prospective Principal Contractors and CDM Co-ordinators (formerly Planning Supervisors) make themselves aware of the new requirements.
During 2007, JPD will be running a series of one and two-day courses on this subject which will satisfy these requirements - for more information contact our team of Training Advisors on 0870 438 2573.
The regulations revise the current requirements for notification of projects and introduce new and additional requirements. Perhaps of more significance they increase duties on Clients, Designers and all Contractors in respect of non notifiable projects. All clients, Designers and Contractors are advised to review their responsibilities and how they will conform to the new regulations.
CDM Co-ordinators (formerly Planning Supervisors) and Principal Contractors also have more specific and detailed duties. The HSE will, in future, require notification of projects much earlier (almost from conception) and more detailed follow up notifications are necessary. Appointments of competent persons and timescales for appointments and commencement of work are innovations introduced in the 2007 regulations.
The requirements for the pretender plan and construction phase plans have changed – each being very much more specific. It is also ergotised that these plans will need to be developed during the course of construction and the involvement of the Designer and CDM Co-ordinator (if appointed) is essential
Greater emphasis is paid to the involvement of the whole construction ‘team’, on communications, co-ordination and cooperation between all persons concerned. The influence from competent persons clients to each contractor is a very significant requirement in the new regulations which evidence of the consideration of appropriate competence at all levels. This element has created considerable concern and discussion form members of Coniac (Construction Industry Advisory Committee) but remains to be addressed by the Client, Designer, Principal Contractors and Contractors. Even domestic clients and builders have duties under the 2007 regulations.
Additionally the Construction (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1996 are to be repealed and integrated into the CDM regulations 2007. These regulations operate in parallel to the Workplace regulations, Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, Health and Safety at Work Act and other regulations pertinent to a project.
The Client has additional duties both in respect of the supply of information and the health and safety file. Surprisingly a file is not currently required for non reportable projects, this may be a matter for subsequent consideration especially since most safety professionals agree that this is fundamental to the supply of future information. This may be a last minute amendment to the ACoP.
For further assistance, call our team on 0870 438 2573