Understanding CDM Regulations: A Plain English Guide
What is CDM?
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations place legal duties on everyone involved in a construction project. Ignorance is not a defence — understanding your role is mandatory.
Key Duty Holders
The Client
Must appoint a principal designer and principal contractor. Must ensure adequate time and resources for the project. Must provide pre-construction information.
Principal Designer
Responsible for health and safety during the design phase. Must identify, eliminate, and manage risks through design decisions.
Principal Contractor
Must plan, manage, and coordinate the construction phase. Must prepare the construction phase plan before work starts.
The Construction Phase Plan
This document must be in place before any work begins. It covers site rules, emergency procedures, risk assessments, and method statements for high-risk activities.