What do small builders need to do under CDM 2015?
Updated · UK law and HSE guidance
Short answer
CDM 2015 applies to small construction projects. The sole contractor or principal contractor must prepare a proportionate construction phase plan before work starts, plan and manage the work, consult workers and coordinate contractors. Projects are F10-notifiable if they exceed 500 person-days, or last over 30 working days with over 20 workers simultaneously.
| Construction phase plan | Required for every construction project |
|---|---|
| Plan timing | Before the construction phase begins |
| Principal contractor | Required where more than one contractor is involved |
| F10 test 1 | >30 working days and >20 workers simultaneously |
| F10 test 2 | >500 person-days |
| F10 duty | Client notifies HSE |
CDM applies to small and domestic work
The size of a job does not remove CDM duties. Builders, plumbers and other trades doing extensions, roofing, kitchens or bathrooms may be contractors under the Regulations. They must have the skills, knowledge, training and experience needed for the work, cooperate with others, follow relevant project information and report anything likely to endanger health or safety.
- Check the client's arrangements and pre-construction information
- Plan site access, welfare, supervision and high-risk activities
- Consult workers and provide understandable information and instruction
Prepare the construction phase plan
Every construction project needs a construction phase plan. If you are the only contractor, you prepare it; where several contractors are involved, the principal contractor prepares, implements, reviews and revises it. For a small, routine project the plan can be simple, but it must address the real risks and management arrangements before the construction phase begins.
- Describe the project, key roles and site rules
- Set arrangements for cooperation, consultation and coordination
- Address significant risks without filling the plan with generic material
Know appointments and notification
A client must appoint a principal designer and principal contractor in writing when more than one contractor is or is likely to be involved. Notification is separate from whether CDM applies. The client submits an F10 only where work is expected to exceed 500 person-days, or last longer than 30 working days with more than 20 workers working simultaneously at any point. SitePaper can support task-level RAMS alongside the plan.
- Count every day on which construction work is expected, including weekends
- Display the F10 where the project is notifiable
- Keep the plan proportionate and update it as work develops
Sources
- HSE: CDM 2015 frequently asked questions
- HSE: Construction phase plan for small builders
- HSE: Principal contractor duties
This guide summarises UK law and HSE guidance for small businesses. It is not legal advice; check the sources and your own circumstances.