A construction phase plan (CPP) is a key document for managing health and safety on UK construction projects.
This article outlines what a CPP is, why it’s needed, and what should be included.
What is A Construction Phase Plan?
A construction phase plan outlines the health and safety procedures and arrangements that will be in place during the construction phase of a project.
It is developed by the principal contractor and includes details of the project team, key dates, site layout, risk assessments and how safety will be managed.
The plan must be updated throughout construction as a live document.
Key Points
- Required for all construction projects in the UK under CDM regulations
- Developed by the principal contractor
- Outlines health and safety procedures for the construction phase
Our Opinion
In my opinion, the construction phase plan is one of the most important documents for ensuring health and safety on any construction project.
It provides a framework for managing risks and details the responsibilities of all parties involved.
Having a comprehensive, up-to-date CPP should be a priority for principal contractors to minimize the chance of accidents on-site.
A Construction Phase Plan
A CPP is a document required by law for all construction projects in the UK. It is developed by the principal contractor and outlines the health and safety arrangements for the construction phase.
The CPP identifies the project team and key dates. It also records the significant health and safety risks associated with the specific construction project and the steps to manage those risks. Details typically included are:
- The management structure and responsibilities of the project team
- A description of the project, including the construction work and key dates
- The health and safety goals for the project and how they will be achieved
- Site rules and specific risk mitigation steps
- Arrangements for consulting with the workforce on health and safety
- Site induction and training procedures
- Welfare facilities provided
The CPP is a live document that is updated to reflect changing site conditions. It is an important tool for health and safety management during construction.
When Is a Construction Phase Plan Required?
A construction phase plan is a legal requirement for all construction projects in the UK that involve more than one contractor. It must be in place before setting up a construction site and starting work.
Specifically, a CPP is required under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 for projects lasting more than 30 working days and having more than 20 workers working simultaneously, or involving more than 500 person days of construction work.
The CPP is developed by the principal contractor once appointed by the client. They are best prepared early, during the pre-construction phase, to allow adequate time for proper planning and consultation with contractors.
Even for smaller jobs not legally requiring a CPP, having a plan that documents health and safety arrangements is considered best practice. It helps manage risks and coordinate contractors on-site.
Bottom line – if multiple contractors will be on-site during the construction phase in the UK, a CPP is needed to comply with regulations and effectively manage health and safety.
What Does a Construction Phase Plan Include?
A construction phase plan is a comprehensive document that coordinates health, safety and environmental considerations for the entire construction project.
Key elements of the CPP include:
- Details of the project such as scope, phases, timeline and personnel
- A description of site hazards and how they will be controlled
- Arrangements for managing traffic routes and deliveries
- Emergency procedures for fire, evacuation, and first aid
- Welfare facilities provided on-site
- How training needs, supervision, and communication between contractors will be handled
- Procedures for monitoring and updating the CPP as required
The plan aims to demonstrate that health and safety have been proactively assessed and addressed before construction begins. This provides clarity for all contractors on expectations and procedures.
While the scope of the CPP will vary for each project, thoroughly considering these elements is key to effectively coordinating safety on site from start to finish.
Who Is Responsible for the Construction Phase Plan?
The principal contractor holds overall responsibility for developing, maintaining and implementing the construction phase plan.
They must:
- Assess project risks and create suitable management procedures
- Consult with contractors on the contents of the plan
- Provide clear information to all parties on their roles and responsibilities
- Make sure cooperating contractors are aware of site hazards and control measures
- Regularly update the CPP and inform contractors of any changes
- Monitor compliance with the procedures outlined in the plan
While the principal contractor leads on this, input from designers, contractors and specialists is vital to produce a comprehensive CPP. All have to cooperate and coordinate on health and safety matters.
Generally, the plan provides a framework for this collaboration — facilitating communication and helping to deliver a safe site for all involved.
Why Are Construction Phase Plans Important?
Construction sites can be complex places, with multiple trades working together in a high-risk environment. Construction phase plans help manage this complexity and minimise dangers.
A comprehensive CPP is important because it:
- Sets out project health and safety goals and states how these will be achieved
- Identifies risks early so they can be eliminated or controlled
- Makes sure everyone involved understands their responsibilities
- Improves on-site coordination between contractors
- Provides induction and training procedures to upskill the workforce
- Standardizes site rules and safe working methods
- Outlines procedures for monitoring, reviewing and updating arrangements
Following an organized CPP provides reassurance that diligent risk management procedures are in place. This protects the workforce and minimizes disruption from incidents.
Finally, comprehensive construction phase plans help deliver safe and efficient projects.
FAQ
What is included in the construction phase plan?
A construction phase plan includes details of the project team, key dates, site layout, risk assessments, and arrangements for managing health and safety during the construction phase. It is a live document that is updated throughout the project.
What is the construction phase?
The construction phase is the period from the start of construction work on-site to the practical completion of the project. It involves the physical construction of the designed project.
How do you create a construction phase plan?
The principal contractor develops the initial construction phase plan before construction begins using pre-construction information. It is then updated in collaboration with contractors throughout the project to reflect current site conditions.
What is the CPHSP?
CPHSP stands for Construction Phase Health and Safety Plan. It is another term for the construction phase plan required under CDM regulations.
Conclusion
A construction phase plan is a key document required for all construction projects in the UK under CDM regulations. It is developed by the principal contractor and outlines arrangements for managing health and safety risks during the construction phase. The plan includes details of the project team, key dates, site layout, risk assessments, and how safety will be managed. It is a live document that is continuously updated to reflect current site conditions. Therefore, having a comprehensive construction phase plan is crucial for ensuring health and safety on construction sites.
