The construction industry can be hazardous; more die in it than in the very hazardous forestry and agriculture sectors. This is a serious concern for our profession. More than two thirds of fatalities now occur on sites where fewer than 15 people work. While we may appear to have a good track record according to PI insurers, there is no room for complacency. Get Health and Safety wrong and apart from possibly ending up with a criminal conviction we could have someone’s death or injury to live with. Hence the need for the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. (CDM 2015)
Those familiar with the previous 2007 Regulations should note the changes. A key feature is the transfer of work previously undertaken by the construction design and management co-ordinator (CDM-C) back to the lead designer (Principal Designer) in many situations. This could be a practitioner or the practice. There have also been a number of changes to align the Regulations better with the EU Directive, such as to the thresholds for notification.
With the help of Colin Moore CMLI the LI has published Technical Information Note 02/15 on the 2015 Regulations. Members who have not made themselves aware in other ways should take time to read through this.
