FAQ's

Why do I need to demonstrate my core Stage 1 H&S competence?

Clients with duties under CDM 2007 must satisfy themselves that the businesses they engage or appoint are competent in H&S. This means that they must make reasonable enquiries to check that the organization or individual is competent to do the relevant work and can allocate adequate resources to it. Many clients now outsource the responsibility the Stage 1 competence to H&S schemes audited by an SSIP appointed auditor, such as Worksafe Contractor and Worksafe Consultant.

What do I need to do to demonstrate Stage 1 H&S Competence?

The HSE have set out the core criteria in Appendix 4 of the CDM 2007 Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) and the health and safety module in PAS91 sets out the questions that are widely applicable to prequalification for construction tendering.

These criteria were developed in consultation with the construction industry. To meet these criteria you will need to demonstrate your competence in areas such as your health and safety policy, risk assessments, training records, accident records etc

Why should I use the SMAS Worksafe scheme over other schemes?

• Competence – as a member of the SSIP Forum our scheme is externally audited annually.
• Ease – The SMAS Worksafe questionnaires have been designed to be as straightforward as possible to complete and we provide comprehensive guidance notes and telephone support
• Speed – assessments are normally completed within 5 working days
• Cost – Our cost structure is competitive with no hidden fees for re-assessments or the use of logos.

What if I have already been assessed by a scheme offered by an SSIP Member Scheme?

If you have already successfully completed a H&S Assessment offered by a current SSIP Member Scheme you will not need to complete a full H&S questionnaire/assessment with us. You will simply need to contact us to obtain our brief verification form, confirm your current SSIP Member Scheme approval, and provide copies of their certificate and your current Insurance documentation. Once verified you will receive a Worksafe certificate and the Worksafe logo. There will be a small administration fee of £30 + vat for this service.

What if I have already been assessed by a scheme offered by a non SSIP Member Scheme?

You will need to complete a full H&S questionnaire as we do not have a mutual deemed to satisfy arrangement with other non SSIP Member Schemes.

How do I prove to potential clients that I have passed a H&S assessment by a SSIP Member Scheme?

Once you have completed the Worksafe assessment you will be issued with a Certificate confirming that you have been assessed by a SSIP Member Scheme. Any client wishing to procure the services of a business which has achieved accreditation can be confident that a reasonable and robust judgment has been made that the standard for competency set out in the CDM Regulations 2007 / PAS 91 have been met, for the first stage of procurement

How much will accreditation cost?

• SMAS Worksafe assessment costs from £135.00 (plus Vat) 

How long will the accreditation process take?

Provided the questionnaire is completed fully and the appropriate documentation is enclosed we would normally expect to complete the assessment within 5 working days of receipt.

How long will the Worksafe Certificate last?

The Certificate will last for 12 months from the date of assessment.

We have sought to make our questionnaires as easy as possible to complete. We also provide guidance notes on how to complete each question. If for any reason you require further information you are able to contact us directly on 01752 697370 and speak to an Assessor.

What if I fail the initial assessment?

If for any reason your questionnaire is incomplete or your systems to do meet the level required we will contact you and explain what additional action / documentation is required. Provided your satisfactory responses are received promptly there will be no further costs to you.

How can I use the Worksafe logo?

Successfully completing the Worksafe scheme means that you have met the core level of H&S competence outlined by the CDM Regulations. To demonstrate this to your existing customers and potential new customers you can display the Worksafe logo – provided free with your certificate – on your letterheads and promotional materials. You can also order a pack of 10 stickers for your vehicles at a cost of £60 + vat.

I employ contractors myself – how can I make sure they meet H&S Stage 1 core criteria?

SMAS is able to offer a full Contractor Assessment Management Programme to clients employing contractors, we will ensure that all assessments meet the stringent requirements set by the regulations and will provide you easy internet access to your approved contractors.  Please contact us to find out more details.