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Significant changes are on the horizon

AS the construction industry goes forward following the recession, we will inevitably see changes in legislation – one of which will be the CDM Regulations, which govern the management of health, safety and welfare when undertaking construction projects. Draft legal guidance and requirements of the proposed Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 have been released.

AS the construction industry goes forward following the recession, we will inevitably see changes in legislation – one of which will be the CDM Regulations, which govern the management of health, safety and welfare when undertaking construction projects. Draft legal guidance and requirements of the proposed Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 have been released. Although these are awaiting Parliamentary approval, and may be subject to change, it is anticipated that they will come into force on 6 April 2015. The main changes to the regulations are – * replacing the role of CDM Co-ordinator with that of the Principal Designer * applying the regulations to domestic clients * changing the requirements for individual and corporate competence * increasing the client’s responsibility for health and safety * allowing for a transitional period for projects that commenced prior to 6 April 2015 * withdrawing the Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) The Government’s objectives are to simplify the regulatory package, improve standards of health, safety and welfare on small construction sites, and discourage bureaucracy – all of which are to be welcomed. The client has a fundamental role in the CDM process. They should ensure that the construction project is set up so that it is carried out from start to finish in a way that adequately controls the risks to health and safety of those who may be affected. However, by dispensing with the CDM co-ordinator, and using a member of the design team as the Principal Designer, the client has lost the ‘eyes and ears’ of an independent advisor. BCAL are a Structural and Civil Engineering practice based in Wellingborough, serving the construction industry for more than 30 years. BCAL have been helping their clients with the CDM Regulations since they came into force in 1994, and are looking forward to continuing this work under the new regulations. The company’s CDM Co-ordinator, Keith Banham, said: “We have a dedicated team who are committed to helping our clients fulfil their obligations under the CDM Regulations.” If you require any assistance or advice, whether it be in respect to appointments, resources, designer or principal designer, health and safety advice, or clarification of the new CDM regulations, please call Keith on 01933 440024 or visit www.bcal.co.uk

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