A comprehensive reference of every major document type used on UK construction projects -- what each one is, what it contains, and when you need it.
A document describing how a specific task or activity will be carried out safely. It details the sequence of work, resources needed, hazards identified, and control measures. Required for most construction activities, especially high-risk work.
A systematic process of identifying hazards, evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm, and determining appropriate control measures. Uses the hierarchy of controls: eliminate, substitute, engineering controls, administrative controls, PPE.
A combined document pairing a risk assessment with a method statement for a specific task. The industry standard for communicating safe working procedures. Usually required by principal contractors before work can commence on site.
Required under CDM 2015, this document sets out the health and safety arrangements for the construction phase. Prepared by the principal contractor, it must be in place before the construction phase begins. Covers site rules, emergency procedures, welfare arrangements, and management of specific risks.
Information gathered and provided by the client (or principal designer) to designers and contractors. Includes project description, planning status, existing health and safety information, site conditions, existing structures/hazards, and relevant previous surveys.
A record of information for the client about health and safety risks that will need to be managed during future maintenance, repair, renovation or demolition. Compiled by the principal designer during the project and handed to the client at completion.
A contemporaneous record of daily activities on site including weather conditions, workforce numbers, deliveries, plant on site, visitors, instructions received, problems encountered, and progress. Essential evidence in the event of disputes or claims.
Records of statutory inspections carried out on plant, equipment, scaffolding, excavations, and other items requiring periodic examination. Includes thorough examinations under LOLER and PUWER, scaffold inspections, and electrical inspections.
A formal written system for controlling high-risk activities. Specifies the work to be done, hazards involved, precautions required, and time limitations. Common permits include hot works, confined space entry, electrical isolation, and roof work.
Documentation of short, informal safety briefings held on site covering specific topics such as manual handling, working at height, dust control, or site-specific hazards. Records should show the topic, date, presenter, and attendee signatures.
Documentation confirming that all workers have received a site-specific induction covering site rules, emergency procedures, first aid arrangements, welfare facilities, hazard information, and reporting procedures.
The official notification form submitted to the HSE before construction work begins. Required under CDM 2015 when the project will last longer than 30 working days with more than 20 workers at any point, or exceed 500 person-days.
A record maintained by designers documenting significant and unusual risks that cannot be eliminated through design, along with information about how remaining risks should be managed. Required under CDM 2015 designer duties.
Assesses the risk of fire on the construction site and details preventive measures, fire detection and warning systems, escape routes, firefighting equipment, emergency procedures, and training requirements. Distinct from the building's eventual fire strategy.
Documents how construction waste will be minimised, segregated, stored, transported, and disposed of or recycled. While no longer a legal requirement since 2013, it remains best practice and is often contractually required.
Details how environmental risks and impacts will be managed on the project. Covers dust suppression, noise control, water pollution prevention, ecological protection, contaminated land, and community liaison.
An Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) or quality management plan defines the quality checks, inspections, and tests required at each stage of construction. Specifies hold points, witness points, review points, and acceptance criteria.
A visual representation of the project schedule showing activities, durations, dependencies, milestones, and critical path. The primary tool for planning and monitoring project progress.
A controlled list of all drawings issued for the project, tracking revision numbers, issue dates, and distribution. Essential for ensuring everyone is working from the latest approved information.
The complete package of documents handed to the client at practical completion. Includes as-built drawings, O&M manuals, warranties, test certificates, commissioning records, the health and safety file, and building log book.
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