Site Rules and Standards of Behaviour

Site rules set the minimum standards of behaviour and safety compliance expected from everyone on the project.
They apply equally to all persons on site: clients, contractors, subcontractors, visitors, and delivery drivers.
Common rules cover PPE requirements, speed limits, smoking areas, phone use, and prohibited behaviours.
Site rules are communicated during induction and must be understood before access is granted.
Enforcement of site rules is the responsibility of all supervisors and managers, not just the safety team.
Persistent rule-breaking can result in a formal warning, removal from site, or contract termination.
Positive behaviours including reporting hazards, helping colleagues, and attending briefings should be recognised.
Site rules should be displayed on notice boards at the entrance and in welfare facilities.
Rules must be reasonable, proportionate, and reviewed as the project progresses and conditions change.
CDM 2015 requires the principal contractor to establish and enforce site rules for all contractors.

Consistent standards	Clear site rules ensure everyone works to the same safety standard regardless of their employer or trade.
Legal framework	CDM 2015 Regulation 13 requires the principal contractor to make and enforce site rules for health and safety.
Culture building	Consistently enforced rules build a safety culture where good behaviour is expected and poor behaviour is challenged.

Do

Don't

Read and understand the site rules during your induction before starting work.
Follow the site rules at all times, even when you think nobody is watching.
Wear the correct PPE for every area and task as specified in the rules.
Report anyone you see breaking site rules to a supervisor constructively.
Recognise and praise colleagues who consistently follow site rules and good practice.
Display site rules prominently at the entrance and in welfare facilities.
Review site rules regularly and update them as the project changes.
Apply the rules equally to everyone including managers, visitors, and subcontractors.
Brief new arrivals and visitors on the key site rules before they access the site.
Enforce rules consistently and fairly, with escalation for repeated non-compliance.

DON'T ignore site rules because you disagree with them; raise concerns properly.
DON'T use mobile phones while walking on site or operating plant and equipment.
DON'T smoke outside designated smoking areas on the construction site.
DON'T exceed the site speed limit, even when running late or under pressure.
DON'T turn a blind eye when colleagues break site rules; speak up.
DON'T assume site rules from your last project apply here without checking.
DON'T apply rules selectively; managers must follow them just like everyone else.
DON'T remove safety signage or site rule notices from display boards.
DON'T tolerate bullying, harassment, or discrimination on any construction site.
DON'T arrive on site under the influence of alcohol or drugs under any circumstances.

See also: Site Induction Requirements | Behavioural Safety Awareness

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