DIY Contractors

For major projects, companies usually appoint an outside contractor to co-ordinate (and make a profit into the bargain).  Do they need to?

The role of the Principal Contactor is defined by the Construction Design and Management (CDM) legislation, which applies to most warehouse infrastructure projects.  The Principal Contractor produces a health and safety plan and monitors health and safety performance.  The Principal Contractor appoints and co-ordinates competent contractors and ensures that they are fully informed and trained to do their job safely.

This role is not generally well understood and it is often perceived that appointing a supplier to act as Principal Contractor reduces risk and hassle.  However, whilst it certainly does require experience and attention to detail, significant savings and flexibility benefits can be realised by doing it yourself.

If you don’t have the skills in-house use of an experienced consultant will ensure that the risk is no greater and possibly reduced compared to using a supplier.