How to Ensure Full CDM 2015 Compliance on Construction Projects

Are you fully compliant with the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)?

If you’re working on public sector tenders, large-scale commercial projects, or any multi-contractor site, ensuring CDM 2015 compliance is a legal requirement.

Non-compliance can result in:

• Fines & legal action from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE)
• Project shutdowns & contract disqualification
• Increased accident risks, causing reputational damage

In this guide, we cover:

• What CDM 2015 means & who it applies to
• Key duties of Principal Contractors, Designers & Clients
• How Majestic Site Management ensures CDM compliance on projects

1. What is CDM 2015 & Why Is It Important?

The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) were introduced to improve health, safety, and risk management in construction projects.

Key CDM 2015 objectives:

• Reduce workplace accidents & fatalities
• Ensure better planning & coordination between project stakeholders
• Improve risk assessment & site safety procedures
• Clarify responsibilities for contractors, designers & clients

All construction projects involving multiple contractors MUST comply with CDM 2015.

Majestic Site Management ensures full CDM 2015 compliance for public & commercial projects.

2. Who is Responsible for CDM 2015 Compliance?

Under CDM 2015, responsibility is divided among several key roles:

Clients (Public or Private Sector)

• Ensure CDM duties are met before work begins.
• Appoint competent Principal Contractors & Designers.
• Provide pre-construction information to the project team.

Principal Designers

• Identify & eliminate potential hazards during design.
• Ensure designs are compliant with health & safety laws.
• Coordinate CDM responsibilities between designers & contractors.

Principal Contractors (Required for Multi-Contractor Sites)

• Plan, manage, and monitor all construction work.
• Ensure safe site conditions & legal compliance.
• Oversee fire safety, risk assessments & emergency planning.

Contractors & Subcontractors

• Carry out construction work safely & in line with CDM regulations.
• Follow health & safety site protocols.
• Ensure all workers are properly trained & qualified.

Each role must be filled by a competent professional to avoid non-compliance risks.

Majestic Site Management provides fully compliant Principal Contractor & Site Management services.

3. Key CDM 2015 Requirements for Construction Projects

To meet CDM 2015 regulations, contractors must:

Create a Construction Phase Plan (CPP)

• Outlines health & safety measures & site risks.
• Required for all projects lasting over 30 days or 500+ person-days of work.

Conduct Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs)

• Essential for preventing fires & ensuring evacuation plans.
• Must cover hot works, electrical safety, and flammable material storage.

Provide Site Inductions & Worker Training

• All workers must receive a formal site induction before starting.
• Health & safety training must cover fire hazards, PPE use & emergency procedures.

Ensure Ongoing Site Monitoring & Inspections

• Regular CDM compliance checks are required throughout the project.
• Toolbox talks & safety meetings must be scheduled regularly.

Failure to meet these requirements can lead to prosecution & contract loss.

Majestic Site Management handles CDM documentation, compliance checks & risk assessments for your projects.

4. Common CDM 2015 Compliance Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Non-compliance can result in major financial & legal risks. Here are the most common mistakes:

• Failure to Appoint a Principal Contractor or Designer
  Solution: Ensure all roles are legally assigned before work begins.
• Missing or Incomplete Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS)
  Solution: Carry out detailed RAMS & keep them updated.
• Lack of Fire Safety Planning & Hot Works Permits
  Solution: Ensure FRAs & hot works permit systems are in place.
• Poor On-Site Communication & Training
  Solution: Schedule regular safety briefings & toolbox talks.

A single mistake can lead to costly delays, HSE investigations & contract loss.

Majestic Site Management helps firms avoid non-compliance by handling all CDM-related responsibilities.

5. How Majestic Site Management Ensures CDM Compliance

We provide expert CDM 2015 compliance support for:

• Public sector & council contracts (e.g., Kirklees Council tenders)
• Commercial construction projects
• Infrastructure, maintenance & fire safety works

Our services include:

• Principal Contractor & CDM Coordinator support
• Construction Phase Plans (CPP) & Health & Safety Files
• Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) & site safety audits
• Toolbox talks & ongoing compliance training

We help contractors stay compliant while keeping projects running smoothly.

Conclusion

CDM 2015 compliance is critical for construction projects—especially for public sector contracts.

Key Takeaways:

• CDM 2015 is a legal requirement for multi-contractor projects.
• Principal Contractors & Designers must ensure full compliance.
• Fire risk assessments, safety training & Construction Phase Plans are mandatory.
• Non-compliance can result in project shutdowns & legal penalties.

Want to ensure your projects meet CDM 2015 regulations?

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 01484 426302