Explainer: How to apply CDM 2015

The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) created the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 to make health and safety planning and management part of every construction project in the UK. They came into force on 6 April 2015, replacing the previous version, CDM 2007. 

Every construction project in the UK, or in the sea around it, needs to comply with CDM 2015, including small building jobs and repairs, installations and refurbishments. It applies to the whole construction process, from concept to completion, and failure to comply is a criminal offence that can result in a substantial fine or custodial sentence. 

CDM explains how everyone involved in the construction process can:

• Plan work sensibly so the risks involved are managed and minimised from start to finish
• Have the right people available for the right job at the right time
• Cooperate and coordinate their work with others to ensure projects run smoothly and safely
• Have the right information about the risks and how they are being managed 
• Communicate this information effectively to those who need to know 
• Consult and engage with workers about the risks and how they are being managed

It also sets out the health and safety responsibilities of the different parties involved in a project, such as clients, designers, contractors and workers. These parties are known as ‘dutyholders’ in the regulations. 

The below graphic provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities as defined by CDM 2015.