CDM 2015 explained: a plain-English guide for contractors
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) are the main H&S rules for UK construction. Here's what they mean for a working contractor — without the jargon.
What is CDM 2015?
CDM 2015 sets out how construction projects must be planned and managed so they're carried out safely. It applies to all construction work, from a domestic extension to a major project.
The duty holders
- Client — the person the work is for. Must make suitable arrangements for managing the project.
- Principal Designer — plans and coordinates health & safety in the pre-construction phase.
- Principal Contractor — plans, manages and coordinates the construction phase (on projects with more than one contractor).
- Contractors — plan, manage and monitor their own work and their workers.
- Workers — must be consulted, informed and work safely.
What a contractor must actually do
If you're a contractor under CDM 2015, you must:
- Plan, manage and monitor your work so it's carried out safely
- Make sure anyone you employ or manage is competent and informed
- Provide suitable site inductions (or check they've been given)
- Comply with directions from the principal contractor
- Provide the RAMS and information the principal contractor needs
When is a construction phase plan needed?
A construction phase plan is required for every construction project — even a single-contractor domestic job. It sets out the health & safety arrangements for the build. On bigger projects the principal contractor prepares it; on a simple single-contractor job, the contractor does.
Do you need to notify the HSE?
A project must be notified to the HSE (an F10) if it's expected to last more than 30 working days with 20+ workers at any point, or exceed 500 person-days. The client is responsible for notifying.
The documents you'll be asked for
In practice, CDM 2015 means you'll be asked for: risk assessments, method statements (RAMS), a construction phase plan, site induction records, and permits for high-risk work. Having them ready is what gets you on site.
Frequently asked questions
What is CDM 2015?
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 are the main health and safety regulations for construction projects in Great Britain, setting out how projects must be planned and managed to be carried out safely. They apply to all construction work.
Who are the duty holders under CDM 2015?
The client, principal designer, principal contractor, contractors and workers. Each has defined responsibilities for planning and managing health and safety at their stage of the project.
Is a construction phase plan always required?
Yes. A construction phase plan is required for every construction project under CDM 2015, including single-contractor and domestic projects.
When must a project be notified to the HSE under CDM 2015?
A project is notifiable if construction is expected to last longer than 30 working days and have more than 20 workers working simultaneously at any point, or exceed 500 person-days. The client is responsible for notifying via an F10.