The role of CDM co-ordinator is to provide the client with a key project advisor in respect of construction health and safety risk management matters. We will assist and advise the client on the appointment of competent designers and contractors and the adequacy of management arrangements. We will ensure proper co-ordination of the health and safety aspects of the design process and facilitate good communication and cooperation between project team members and co-ordinate the preparation of the health and safety file.
The early appointment of the CDM co-ordinator is crucial for effective planning and establishing management arrangements from the start. The regulations require the appointment to take place as soon as is practicable after initial design work or other preparation for construction work has begun. This will allow the client to appraise their project needs and objectives, including the business case and any possible constraints on development to enable them to decide whether or not to proceed with the project before appointing the CDM co-ordinator.
The CDM co-ordinator needs to be in a position to be able to co-ordinate the design work and advise on the suitability of the designs, and therefore they should be appointed before significant detailed design work begins. Significant detailed design work includes preparation of the initial concept design and implementation of any strategic brief. As a scheme moves into the detailed design stage, it becomes more difficult to make fundamental changes that eliminate hazards and reduce risks associated with early design decisions.
Proper consideration of the health and safety implications of the design for those who build and maintain the structure will make a significant contribution to reducing its whole life cost, and will make delivery to time, cost and quality more likely.