Last edited 08 May 2024

CDM planning period

The CDM regulations require that, 'A client must make suitable arrangements for managing a project, including the allocation of sufficient time and other resources.'

The time allocated by the client under this part of the regulations must be notified to the Health and Safety Executive (along with other information) as soon as is practicable before the construction phase begins. See Notify HSE for more information.

This 'CDM planning period' is intended to allow contractors sufficient time to assess health and safety issues and plan their works before commencing construction. Duty holders will need to ensure that enough time is allowed for this in the programme, both for the appointment of contractors and sub-contractors (including trade contractors and works contractors on construction management or management contract projects).

The regulations do not say how long the CDM planning period should be, as this will vary significantly depending on the nature of the works that are being carried out. However, if the time allocated is short, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) may consider that insufficient time has been allowed. Clients may discuss with duty holders how long they believe the CDM planning period should be and should also consult with proposed contractors.

The client must not allow work on site to proceed unless a construction phase plan has been prepared, at least for the early stages of the works, and arrangements made for the development of the rest of the plan. The construction phase plan sets out how health and safety will be managed during the construction of the project.

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CDM planning period refers to the specific timeframe during which the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) planning and preparation activities take place for a construction project. The CDM regulations are a set of health and safety regulations that apply to construction projects in the United Kingdom. The planning period is a crucial phase where key considerations and actions are taken to ensure the project is executed safely and effectively. Here are some key aspects of the CDM planning period:

1. Pre-construction Phase: The planning period typically occurs during the pre-construction phase of a project. It starts as early as the initial design stages and continues until construction work begins on site.

2. Appointing the Principal Designer and Principal Contractor: During the planning period, the client must appoint a Principal Designer and a Principal Contractor. The Principal Designer is responsible for coordinating health and safety aspects during the design phase, while the Principal Contractor takes charge of health and safety during the construction phase.

3. Assessing and Managing Risks: Risk assessments and risk management activities are conducted during the planning period. Hazards and risks associated with the project are identified, evaluated, and appropriate control measures are put in place to mitigate them.

4. Health and Safety Plan: A health and safety plan is developed during the planning period. This plan outlines how health and safety will be managed throughout the project, including measures to protect workers, visitors, and the general public.

5. Cooperation and Communication: Effective cooperation and communication among all parties involved in the project are established during the planning period. This includes ensuring collaboration between the client, designers, contractors, and any other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and safe approach to the project.

6. Information Exchange: Relevant health and safety information is shared during the planning period. Designers provide information on the design and construction requirements to ensure health and safety considerations are incorporated from the start.

7. Competence Assessment: Competence assessments are carried out during the planning period to ensure that all individuals involved in the project have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to perform their roles safely.

8. Documenting the CDM Plan: The outcomes of the planning period, including risk assessments, health and safety plans, and other relevant documents, are compiled into a CDM plan. This plan serves as a reference and guide for the project's health and safety management.

It's important to note that the specific duration of the CDM planning period can vary depending on the size, complexity, and nature of the construction project. The planning period should be given adequate time and attention to ensure that health and safety considerations are properly addressed and integrated into the project's execution.

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