The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) 2007
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations are now before Parliament, anticipated to come into force on 6 April 2007. The Construction Confederation has worked with parties representing all CDM dutyholders on the CONIAC sponsored Working Group with the goal of producing industry guidance.
These Regulations concern occupational health, safety and welfare in construction. They place duties in relation to management arrangements and practical measures on a range of construction project participants, including clients, designers and contractors. The Regulations replace and modify existing regulations with the aim of simplifying and clarifying the delivery of improved standards of health, safety and welfare, and related business benefits.
The main changes to CDM 2007 when compared with CDM 1994 relate mainly to client, co-ordinator and designer duties. The duties of the principal contractors and contractors remain broadly the same with a different emphasis on what they can expect from other dutyholders. There is considerable emphasis within the Regulations on co-operation and communication between all of the dutyholders. In particular there are very clear requirements to involve the workforce.
Whilst the co-operation requirements already exist in CDM in the interest of promoting good health and safety practices, good co-operation should assist a smooth running project with no surprises emerging.
The Construction Confederation will be holding CDM workshops for MCG members on 15 and 17 May (venue to be confirmed) - if you would like further information please contact the health and safety department - 020 7227 4552, rebecca.ward@thecc.org.uk.
