Navigating Non-Conformities in Construction Industry Assessments
In the construction industry, third-party assessments have become a standard practice. These assessments, conducted by organisations like ISO, Achilles UVDB, and CHAS, often reveal common non-conformities (NCs) that companies need to address. Let’s explore some typical NCs and their solutions.
1. Lack of Documented H&S Communication
Issue: Insufficient evidence of site communication between top management and employees.
Solution: Implement a central point register to record informal discussions, changes to RAMS, and issues raised by site employees. This helps identify trends and satisfies assessment requirements.
2. Subcontractor and Supplier Control
Issue: Inadequate management of subcontractor insurance, competency, and compliance with regulations like the Modern Day Slavery Act 2015.
Solution:
– Assign dedicated employees to manage subcontractor and supplier control.
– Establish clear requirements for documentation and competency.
– Set up regular checks for expiring records.
– Implement an audit program to ensure process effectiveness.
3. Non-Routine (Service) RAMS and Controls
Issue: Lack of risk assessments and method statements for non-site activities, often overlooked during assessments.
Solution: Extend existing HSEQ inspection programs to cover non-routine activities in offices, workshops, stores, and other non-site areas.
Key Takeaways
To prevent or address non-conformities:
1. Identify process owners
2. Maintain clear process records
3. Establish regular checking frequencies
By focusing on these areas, construction companies can improve their compliance and performance in third-party assessments, ultimately enhancing their overall safety and quality management systems.
