Managing Contractors

Most medium to large organisations use contractors in some form for cleaning, catering, IT support, maintenance and security. It is not surprising therefore, that the management of contractors is one of the most common health and safety concerns of our clients.

Nearly every large health and safety prosecution has an element of contractor mis-management, and HSE press releases invariably identify two or more parties as being culpable when a matter comes to Court. How should an organisation monitor a contractor when they are not an expert?

This course updates you on the law that governs contractor and sub-contractor relationships and what it means for you in your role as a client. We will also cover how you can communicate your expectations of people who share your workplace but who are not your staff, and what they can expect of you.

COURSE CONTENT

The course takes the HSE guidance-based approach to explaining the key steps in the process of managing contractors and includes:

• Legal requirements for managing and controlling contractor’s activities
• Safe systems of work and permit to work systems
• Contractor control policy and associated procedures
• Planning, organising and co-ordinating contractor work to minimise risk
• Selection and competency of contractors
• Monitoring contractor’s activity
• Reviewing contractor’s documentation, such as risk assessments and safe systems of work

Particular emphasis is placed on the preparation and planning of health and safety arrangements before work on site begins.

ASSESSMENT

The course concludes with a short multiple-choice assessment paper.