While auditing we at SOS constantly identify issues with the main contractors subcontractor’s regarding Work, Health and Safety Compliance issues.
Where a principal employer engages contractors to perform work, effective contractor procurement and management are essential to ensure duties to a contractor are met as both an employee (i.e. worker) as well as a third party.
Issues we commonly identify are (but not limited to):
- No direct supervision,
- No review of approval of the subcontractor Risk assessments or SWMS,
- No SDS’s or risk assessments for their hazardous substances or dangerous goods,
- Faulty equipment being used,
- Lack of PPE compliance,
- Lack of site rules compliance etc.
Good contract management is the process that ensures both parties in a contract fully meet their respective legal / regulatory obligations. Such processes could include, but not limited to:
- All parties know and understand their obligations under the contract
- All safety documentation is acquired and approved before work commences
- Positive consultation communication processes are installed
- Disputes are rare and limited to minor items
- Regular meeting are conducted
- Workplace inspections/audits and task observations are conducted at regular intervals
If you would like more information regarding successful subcontractor management practices, please contact us.
https://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/Safety/What-is-contractor-management-5207.aspx