The CDM Regulations require the client to appoint a CDM Co-ordinator, for notifiable projects under the regulations, as soon as is practicable after initial design work or other preparations for construction begin.
A notifiable project under CDM 2007, is effectively any building, renovation or maintenance work that is not for a domestic client and is expected to take 30 days or more to complete.
The CDM Co-ordinator is intended to provide the client with a key project advisor in respect of construction health and safety risk management matters.
The CDM Co-ordinator should assist and advise the client on the appointment of competent consultants and contractors. It should also be the CDM Co-ordinator who assists the client in discharging their duties in respect of having adequate management arrangements for the project, ensuring proper co-ordination of health and safety aspects of the design process, facilitating good communication and co-operation between project team members in the process.
The HSE believe that the early appointment of the CDM Co-ordinator is crucial for effective planning and establishing management arrangements from the start.
Through early involvement with the client and the designers the CDM Co-ordinator can make a significant contribution to reducing risk both during the construction and in the life of the building, when maintenance and repairs are undertaken.
Thought and consideration during the planning and design can save time and money later.
CJ Consilium's CDM Co-ordinators are Fellows or Members of the Institution of Construction Safety and are included on the register of CDM Co-ordinators administered by the Institution and recognised by the HSE in the Approved Code of Practice for CDM 2007.