Below is a sample health and safety policy for a construction business. You can adapt this template to reflect your organisationโs specific activities, risks, and working practices.
Statement of intent
[Company Name] is committed to achieving and maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental protection across all our operations. We provide and maintain safe and healthy working conditions, prevent injury and ill health, and comply with all applicable UK health, safety, and environmental legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and associated regulations.
We recognise that effective health and safety management is integral to the success of our business and continually review and improve our systems and performance to ensure the wellbeing of our employees, contractors, and the wider community.
Signed: ____________________________
Name: [Managing Director / Senior Responsible Person]
Position: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________
Review date: ______________________
Responsibilities
At [Company Name], health and safety responsibilities are clearly defined and communicated to ensure effective management across the organisation.
- The Managing Director has overall responsibility for health, safety, and environmental performance, ensuring that sufficient resources, competent personnel, and effective systems are in place to meet our legal and moral obligations.
- The Health and Safety Manager (or appointed competent person) is responsible for developing, implementing, and reviewing health and safety policies and procedures, and for providing professional advice and guidance across all projects.
- Site managers and supervisors are responsible for implementing safe systems of work, carrying out daily site inspections, ensuring that risk assessments and method statements are followed, and reporting any incidents or near misses promptly.
- Employees are required to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions. They must follow all safety instructions, use equipment correctly, and report any hazards, unsafe acts, or conditions to their supervisor without delay.
- Contractors and visitors must comply with all site safety requirements and attend an induction before commencing work or entering operational areas.
The company promotes open communication on health and safety matters and actively consults with employees through regular toolbox talks, site meetings, and worker representatives.
Arrangements
At [Company Name], we have established detailed arrangements to ensure that health, safety, and environmental standards are effectively managed across all construction projects.
Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)
We operate a proactive approach to risk management through comprehensive risk assessments and method statements. RAMS identify hazards, evaluate risks, and set out safe systems of work. These must be briefed to all relevant personnel before work starts and reviewed whenever there is a significant change.
Site inductions, briefings, and communication
All employees, contractors, and visitors receive a site-specific induction before starting work. This covers site rules, significant hazards, restricted areas, welfare arrangements, and emergency procedures. Regular toolbox talks, safety briefings, and site safety alerts reinforce important messages and promote continuous learning and consultation.
Training, competence, and certification
We ensure that all workers hold the required skills, training, and qualifications for the tasks they undertake. Competence is maintained through refresher training, supervisor coaching, ongoing CPD, and monitoring of performance on site. Additional training, such as working at height, asbestos awareness, or plant operation, is provided where task-specific risks require it.
Emergency preparedness and response
Clear emergency procedures are in place for every site, covering fire, first aid, spill response, rescue arrangements, severe weather, and evacuation. Sufficient first aiders, fire marshals, and equipment are appointed or provided in line with risk assessments. Emergency arrangements are tested, communicated, and reviewed regularly.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
COSHH assessments are completed for all hazardous substances used or generated. Controls include substitution, engineering controls, safe handling and storage, compatible containers, and correct disposal. Current Safety Data Sheets are available on site and relevant workers are briefed on the risks and protective measures.
Plant, tools, and equipment safety
All plant, tools, and equipment are subject to regular inspection and maintenance in accordance with PUWER, LOLER (where applicable), and manufacturer requirements. Only authorised and trained personnel operate plant. Defective or unsafe equipment is immediately isolated and removed from service.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Appropriate PPE is provided and must be worn where required by risk assessments or site rules. PPE is maintained, stored correctly, and replaced when damaged or worn. Workers receive instruction and training on correct selection, use, and limitations.
Incident reporting, investigation, and learning
We maintain robust procedures for reporting and investigating incidents, unsafe acts, and near misses. All reports are reviewed to identify root causes and corrective actions. Lessons learned are communicated across the company and used to improve systems, behaviours, and future planning.
Environmental protection and sustainability
Environmental protection is integral to our construction activities. We minimise waste, prevent pollution, control noise and dust, and aim to reduce carbon impact through resource efficiency and responsible site management. Site-specific environmental controls and permits are identified and implemented where relevant.
Monitoring, audit, and continuous improvement
These arrangements are actively monitored through site inspections, audits, supervision, and performance reviews. Findings are used to measure compliance and drive continual improvement, ensuring alignment with current legislation, industry standards, and company objectives.
Policy review and communication
This policy is reviewed annually or following any significant change in operations, legislation, or company structure. The signed statement is displayed on site notice boards, introduced at inductions, and reinforced through toolbox talks and safety meetings.
Digital copies are maintained for audit and compliance purposes, ensuring that all employees and contractors can access the latest version.
Next review date: ____________________________
Adam Clarke
Managing Director (Consulting)
