Health, Safety and Welfare

The introduction of the Construction (Design and Management) regulations (CDM) in 1995 has not been as effective as hoped for by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Many post-holders are currently using paperwork as an end in itself rather than an aid to project/risk management. Many accidents and instances of occupational ill-health are still being blamed on poor on-site management, or to decisions made during the design and planning stages.

In response, the HSE is redrafting the CDM, with the help of the industry through CONIAC. It is anticipated that the revised Regulations will come into force in April 2006.

The Health and Safety Commission also plans to publish a Consultative Document on the proposals for revising the CDM Regulations in the spring of 2005.

It is proposed that these will incorporate what is left of the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996, which will then be revoked in their entirety. This is an opportunity for the industry to provide constructive feedback on the proposed changes.