Selecting contractors

It is good practice for the duty holder(s) of the congregation(s) to select a contractor on the basis of their health and safety competence. To help with this decision you should ask to see evidence of records such as:

• The company's Health and Safety Policy
• Staff training and competency records and/or specialist certification
• Examples of Risk Assessments and method statements
• Previous or current Client references
• Accident records and RIDDOR reportable accident rates etc.
• Any enforcement action taken by authorities
• Maintenance of machinery and plant equipment
• Proof of adequate insurance
• Membership of professional organisation or certified body.

Where more than one contractor is involved the client must appoint a principal designer and principal contractor and they will need to produce a health and safety file.