Principal contractors and any workers under their control (including sub-contractors) are most at risk of injury and ill health from construction work. Contractors, therefore, have an important role in planning, managing and monitoring work to make sure any – and all – risks are controlled.
The principal contractor plays a crucial role in collaboration with the client and principal designer, significantly influencing the management of health and safety risks throughout the construction process. This responsibility ensures that standards are not only understood but also adhered to carefully and properly. They should be appointed by the client as early into the project as possible, before the construction phase is due to begin.
