The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 are to
undergo re-drafting by the HSE and reissue during the course of
2014. The Regulations were initially introduced in 1994 with the
aim of minimising serious injury, fatalities and ill health by
improving the overall management and coordination of health, safety
and welfare throughout all stages of a construction project. It is
felt that the Regulations have largely achieved their objectives
but concerns remain, particularly with the Approved Code of
Practice (ACoP).
The review started during the course of 2009 with details expected
to be presented to the HSE board this December. As part of the
evaluation process external research was conducted by Frontline
Consultants. On the positive side it was felt that the 2007
Regulations improved clarification of dutyholders' roles and
responsibilities, the definitions of competence were strong and the
ACoP was well laid out. Areas arguably requiring attention include
the high level of generic paperwork and the difficulties
dutyholders face when interpreting the ACoP. Following the
Löftstedt report (which recommended review of the Regulations
by April 2012), it appears as though the HSE are keen to address
outstanding issues, including ways to reduce and simplify the
ACoP.
The Health and Safety team will continue to monitor developments in
this area going forward.
This article was written for Law-Now, CMS Cameron McKenna's free online information service. To register for Law-Now, please go to www.law-now.com/law-now/mondaq
Law-Now information is for general purposes and guidance only. The information and opinions expressed in all Law-Now articles are not necessarily comprehensive and do not purport to give professional or legal advice. All Law-Now information relates to circumstances prevailing at the date of its original publication and may not have been updated to reflect subsequent developments.
The original publication date for this article was 22/06/2012.
