Health and Safety: Construction Site Rules You Must Follow

Key Health and Safety Regulations Every Construction Site Must Follow

The construction industry is one of the most high-risk sectors in the UK, and with good reason. From heavy machinery and elevated work platforms to electrical systems and hazardous materials, construction sites are filled with potential dangers. To mitigate these risks and protect workers, there are strict health and safety regulations that every construction site must follow.

Understanding and complying with these regulations is not only a legal obligation—it’s also essential for maintaining a safe, productive, and reputable business. Below, we’ll explore the most important health and safety regulations construction managers and site operators need to know.

1. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

This foundational piece of legislation places a general duty on employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of all their employees. It also extends to protecting the public and anyone who may be affected by the work being carried out on a site.

Employers must:

  • Provide a safe working environment

  • Offer proper training and supervision

  • Conduct regular risk assessments

  • Maintain safe systems of work and equipment

For construction businesses in regions like Surrey, Berkshire, and Sussex, following this act is the baseline for building a robust safety culture.

2. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)

CDM 2015 is specifically tailored to the construction industry. It governs the planning, management, and execution of construction projects, ensuring safety throughout the entire lifecycle of a build—from design to demolition.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Clients must ensure that arrangements are in place for managing health and safety.

  • Designers must eliminate foreseeable risks during design stages.

  • Principal Contractors must plan, manage, and monitor construction work to ensure it's carried out safely.

  • Workers must cooperate with health and safety requirements and report any concerns.

Non-compliance with CDM 2015 can result in serious penalties and even site shutdowns.

3. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

This regulation supports the Health and Safety at Work Act and requires all employers to conduct regular risk assessments to identify hazards and implement preventive measures.

Employers must also:

  • Appoint competent health and safety advisors

  • Establish emergency procedures

  • Provide clear information and training to all workers

  • Monitor and review their safety measures continuously

For construction companies focused on Health and Safety in Surrey, Health and Safety in Berkshire, or Health and Safety in Sussex, this regulation is essential for staying proactive and prepared.

4. Work at Height Regulations 2005

Falls from height are one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injuries in construction. These regulations apply to all work done at height where there is a risk of falling.

Employers and site managers must:

  • Avoid working at height when possible

  • Use proper equipment such as scaffolding, harnesses, or guardrails

  • Ensure workers are trained in fall prevention

  • Inspect safety equipment regularly

Failing to follow these guidelines can result in serious injury and legal consequences.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Regulations 1992 (and 2022 Amendment)

Construction sites require the use of PPE such as helmets, high-visibility clothing, gloves, eye protection, and steel-toed boots. The updated regulations in 2022 extend duties to include both employees and self-employed workers.

Employers must:

  • Provide suitable PPE at no cost

  • Ensure it is maintained and replaced when necessary

  • Train workers on how to use PPE correctly

PPE is your last line of defense—ensure it's taken seriously.

6. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

Construction work often involves the use of chemicals, dust, and other substances that can be harmful to health. COSHH regulations require employers to assess and control these risks.

Responsibilities include:

  • Identifying hazardous substances on-site

  • Implementing control measures (e.g., ventilation or extraction systems)

  • Providing protective equipment and health surveillance where needed

A failure to manage hazardous substances properly can lead to long-term health issues for workers.

7. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

Manual handling injuries are common on construction sites. This regulation focuses on reducing the risk of injury when workers are lifting, carrying, or moving objects.

Employers must:

  • Avoid hazardous manual handling where possible

  • Assess the risks if it can’t be avoided

  • Reduce the risk through training and mechanical aids

Protecting workers’ physical health also improves long-term productivity.

8. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013

This regulation requires employers and other responsible persons to report serious workplace accidents, occupational diseases, and dangerous occurrences.

Types of incidents that must be reported include:

  • Fatalities

  • Major injuries (e.g., broken bones, amputations)

  • Over-seven-day injuries

  • Dangerous near-miss events

Having a clear reporting process in place helps identify problem areas and prevent recurrence.

Final Thoughts

Health and safety regulations exist to protect people—not to slow projects down. When followed properly, these rules reduce risk, prevent costly delays, and contribute to a culture of safety that benefits everyone involved.

Construction businesses operating in areas like Surrey, Berkshire, and Sussex must take special care to remain up to date with local regulations and expectations. Partnering with experts in Health and Safety Surrey, Health and Safety Berkshire, or Health and Safety Sussex can help your organization meet these demands and exceed industry standards.

Compliance isn't just a legal requirement—it's a commitment to your team’s well-being and your company’s long-term success.

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