02 September 2010

In July 2010 the British Property Federation and the Construction Clients' Group reported that two thirds of companies commissioning construction services have no knowledge whatsoever of the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations.

These regulations - commonly referred to as the CDM Regs and updated in 2007 - apply to almost all construction projects undertaken in the UK.

They were introduced in an effort to improve the management and co-ordination of health and safety and welfare issues in construction projects, and to reduce accidents and cases of ill health in the construction industry.

The recent figures are cause for significant concern. A person or company commissioning works are responsible for them even though they may not handle the works themselves. They cannot delegate this responsibility as was once the case. This means that a person or company with no experience in construction can be held responsible for accidents during building works, and hit with jail terms or unlimited fines, in both civil and criminal actions.

The report also suggests that the CDM Regs have had little impact on reducing health and safety risks, but if they are not common knowledge is that any wonder? Companies report that costs and the level of administration required for compliance has increased, but can we really put a price on saving lives?

Whilst risks have not reduced, research shows that fatal accidents in the construction industry are at the lowest they have been for a number of years, with the number halving in the last four years.  However it remains the second most dangerous industry to work in, in the UK.

The CDM Regs are just one of a number of key pieces of legislation that those in the construction industry need to be aware of. If you are new to construction, or want to know more, please contact us and we will be happy to guide you through the legislation you need to be familiar with.

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