Start with what they asked for
- Asked for a CPP? Set out how the construction project will be organised, including site rules, welfare and coordination.
- Asked for RAMS? Explain the hazards, safety measures and work steps for your task or work package.
Source: HSE: Planning construction work and the construction phase plan · HSE: Risk assessments and method statements
Who is responsible for the CPP?
The construction phase plan must be prepared before the construction phase begins. Who prepares it depends on how the project is organised.
- One contractor: that contractor must ensure the plan is drawn up before setting up the site.
- More than one contractor: the principal contractor prepares the plan and coordinates the construction phase.
- A subcontractor: works to the relevant parts of the project’s CPP and plans their own work.
Source: HSE: Planning construction work and the construction phase plan · HSE: Contractor responsibilities · HSE: Principal contractor responsibilities
Does a small job still need a CPP?
Yes. HSE says a construction phase plan is required for every construction project, including small jobs. A simple project can have a simple plan; the detail needs to suit the work and its risks.
Do not assume that a short job or work in someone’s home is exempt. HSE’s small-builder guide includes a basic planning sheet to help you get started.
Can RAMS replace the construction phase plan?
Do not assume that a RAMS pack is also a CPP. It may describe your task without covering how the project will be managed.
Whether you keep information in one pack or separate files, check that the project arrangements and task risks are both properly covered. Renaming a RAMS file “CPP” does not fill any missing information.
The two should agree. Your work steps must fit the site’s access rules, arrangements for other trades and emergency procedures.
Source: HSE: Planning construction work and the construction phase plan · HSE: Contractor responsibilities
A simple example: a shop refit
The project plan sets out when deliveries can arrive, how trades will work around each other, and the site’s emergency arrangements.
The joiner’s RAMS explain the work steps, hazards and safety measures for fitting the shop units. If that work would block an agreed access route, the joiner needs to coordinate a safe arrangement with the person managing the site.
One document gives the project arrangements. The other explains how the task fits within them.
Before you send your paperwork
If the request is unclear, ask: “Do you need task RAMS, the project’s construction phase plan, or both?”
- Confirm who is responsible for the project plan.
- Get the site rules and project information that affect your task.
- Check that your method and safety measures fit those arrangements.
- Agree how changes will be communicated before the work starts.
Source: HSE: Contractor responsibilities
Sources
Read the full guidance for more detail.