CDM 2015 Regulations Explained: What Every Contractor Must Know
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 — known as CDM 2015 — are the main set of regulations for managing health, safety, and welfare on construction projects in the UK. If you work in construction, CDM applies to you.
Who Does CDM Apply To?
CDM 2015 applies to all construction work in Great Britain, regardless of size. There is no minimum project value or duration threshold. Whether you're building a skyscraper or fitting a kitchen, CDM applies.
Key Roles Under CDM 2015
- Client — the person or organisation the work is being done for. Has duties to appoint the right people, provide information, and ensure welfare facilities.
- Principal Designer — manages health and safety risks during the design phase. Required on projects with more than one contractor.
- Principal Contractor — manages the construction phase. Plans, manages, monitors, and coordinates health and safety. Required on projects with more than one contractor.
- Contractors — any business carrying out construction work. Must plan and manage their own work safely.
- Workers — everyone on site. Must cooperate with employers, report hazards, and follow site rules.
What Do Contractors Need to Do?
As a contractor under CDM 2015, you must:
- Plan, manage, and monitor your work to ensure safety
- Provide RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements) for your activities
- Ensure workers are competent and have appropriate training
- Cooperate with the Principal Contractor
- Report anything that might affect health or safety
- Provide welfare facilities for your workers
Documentation Requirements
CDM 2015 requires that construction work is properly planned and documented. This includes:
- Construction phase plan (managed by the Principal Contractor)
- Risk assessments for all significant hazards
- Method statements for high-risk activities
- Training records and competency evidence (CSCS cards)
- Inspection records for plant, equipment, and temporary works
Keeping Compliant
The best way to stay CDM compliant is to build documentation into your daily workflow — not treat it as an afterthought. Digital tools like SiteLynx let you create RAMS, run safety audits, track training, and manage all your compliance documents in one place, automatically filed per project.