What is a Construction Phase Plan?
Topics: construction, planning
A construction phase plan (CPP) is part of the process of mitigating risk and issues that may arise in construction projects. The CPP helps the contractor prepare for the correct health and safety procedures to be followed on site.
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By creating a detailed construction phase plan, the site should run more efficiently and be a safer environment for everyone. A robust construction phase plan is an essential component of CDM 2015 Regulations.
Why is a Construction Phase Plan needed?
Risks in construction tend to increase directly in proportion to the scale of work taking place. Due to legal changes brought in by CDM 2015, all projects require suitable Construction Phase Plans. These are typically prepared by the principal contractor for both commercial and domestic projects.
This means that while the refurbishment of a house may be less complex than building from scratch, there will still be issues that need to be planned for ahead of time.
De Beauvoir extension – construction phase
What should a typical plan contain?
The construction phase plan usually begins with a brief description of the works to be completed. If there are any unusual risks, handling hazardous substances, or working in constrained conditions, these will be highlighted. The document will build on the risk areas that have previously been identified during the design phase CDM work. The design phase work will be completed by the principal designer. This is often a role fulfilled by the architect on smaller residential projects.
The CPP document will also give an overview of the planned sequence of works. These two parts are vital for helping unrelated trades remain vigilant and aware of issues that could emerge before or during their time on site.
In cases of significant hazards, the construction phase plan will also be supported by method statements and worker briefings. These ensure that all site workers are aware of high-risk activities. Briefings should also discuss how each site worker can play a part in removing the risks for themselves and others.
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The format of worker briefings is also defined within the CPP document, as it relates to the chain of communication. Usually headed up by the site manager, each trade supervisor and subcontractor supervisor has a duty to ensure that the teams under their care are appropriately qualified and certified to work on-site, but equally that they are following appropriate safe construction practices.
Clients and site rules
Clients need to ensure they are working with experienced contractors who are compliant and ensure CPP documentation is closely followed. Primarily, this will protect everyone on site, but it also means that the construction process will be better managed.
Primrose Hill house refurbishment and extension – construction phase
Site rules help to provide a clear standard that everyone can adhere to. These rules often refer to other statutory, professional, and guidance documents to capture a broad overview, but also state explicitly the need for “all operatives to report daily to be recorded in the site attendance register”. Site rules also explain the need for PPE and the importance of the site being secure and locked when unoccupied.
When contractors are working with an external monitor or auditor, CPP documents will form a clear benchmark for reporting on whether good procedures are being followed on site.
When is a construction phase plan required?
The construction phase plan is a dynamic set of documents. For example, if a site worker is injured or a new health risk is uncovered, these need to be logged within the accident register and the health and safety file. Steps also need to be put in place to ensure the incident doesn’t occur again.
The construction phase plan should be updated whenever new developments or information emerge. For example, if the plans change as the project develops, or external factors emerge which may impact the health and safety of those working on site.
As is often the case with architectural projects, some design details may remain incomplete until after construction has begun. A contractor should adapt the documents as required throughout the project so that the work can continue to proceed safely and in line with best practice.
View our projects page to see our recent work, or contact us on 020 3637 4236 to discuss your project.
Construction Phase Plans FAQs
A construction phase plan (CPP) is part of the process of mitigating risk and issues that may arise. It helps the contractor prepare for the correct health and safety procedures to be followed on site.
In cases of significant hazards, the construction phase plan will also be supported by method statements and worker briefings. These ensure that site workers are aware of high-risk activities and how they can play a part in reducing risks.
The construction phase plan should be updated whenever new developments or information emerge. A contractor should adapt the documents as required throughout the project so that the work can continue to proceed safely and in line with best practice.