CDM/General/TBT-CDM-022
Health and Safety File Requirements
CDM & Legal Framework › General › Health and Safety File Requirements
Toolbox Talk
Health and Safety File Requirements
The health and safety file is a legal requirement under CDM 2015 for every construction project. It contains information needed by anyone carrying out future construction, maintenance, or demolition work on the completed structure. Building the file throughout the project ensures that critical safety information is available long after the construction team has left site. This talk explains what the file must contain and everyone's role in contributing to it.
Key Hazards
Future workers at risk because critical safety information was not recorded
Hidden hazards such as buried services or asbestos not documented for future reference
Incomplete file handed over at project completion lacking essential maintenance data
File not updated during construction leading to outdated or inaccurate information
Control Measures
- Start compiling the health and safety file at the beginning of the project, not at the end.
- Include as-built drawings showing the final location of all buried services and structural elements.
- Record the location and type of any hazardous materials remaining in the completed structure.
- Include details of key structural elements, design loadings, and any special maintenance requirements.
- Document all residual risks that future workers will need to manage during maintenance or alteration.
- Ensure manufacturers' operation and maintenance manuals are included for all installed equipment.
- Update the file throughout the project as each element is completed and information becomes available.
- Hand over the completed file to the client or principal designer at practical completion.
- Store the file in a format that is accessible and usable by future duty holders and contractors.
Remember
- Start compiling the health and safety file at the beginning of the project, not at completion
- Include as-built drawings showing the final location of all buried services and structural elements
- Record the location and type of any hazardous materials remaining in the completed structure
- Document all residual risks that future workers will need to manage during maintenance
- Update the file throughout the project as each element is completed and information is confirmed
- Hand the completed file to the client or principal designer at practical completion
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
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