The Health & Safety Executive have released updated guidance on the requirements for welfare facilities provision on UK construction sites. The guidance gives interpretation of the standards and clarifies basic expectations for compliance with Schedule 2 of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) and also provides guidance on enforcement.
Since the updated CDM regulations were introduced in 2015, the industry has been calling out for greater clarification on the standards required for welfare facilities. The release of this document has been welcomed by our dedicated CDM team who will be working with clients over the coming weeks to ensure the contents are interpreted correctly and give guidance on improvements or changes required.
Construction workers are entitled to welfare provisions as part of their safe working arrangements. It is not only a fundamental right but also the law. The provision of good welfare standards set the tone for a well planned and organised site. Welfare facilities form an important control measure both collectively and in their own right. They help protect workers against the risks from hazardous substances such as cement, lead or micro-organisms.
The document sets out the required provisions for:
- Changing rooms
- Eating and preparing meals
- Lighting
- Ventilation
- Toilet and sanitary arrangements
- Rest facilities
- Hygiene
- New and expectant mothers
- PPE and personal items storage
- Drinking water
The full guidance can be viewed here.
If a HSE Inspector visits your site, the welfare provisions provided will be measured against the contents of the guidance. It is worth familiarising yourself with the contents to ensure that during planning and delivery of your project, the facilities provided meet the standards set out. If you are a construction business and require help with your site welfare standards, then contact us here.