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Setting up health and safety on a build can feel like a massive job, but it doesn’t need to be a headache. Whether you’re running the project or working as a subby, here’s your straightforward guide to keeping you and everyone safe.

Managing your contractors 

If you’re the main contractor, you need to know your subbies have the skills to work safely before they step foot on-site. Talk to them upfront to make sure their H&S covers:

• Hazards, risk controls, and emergency plans; request a  Task Analysis (TA) or similar for high-risk work and make sure it aligns with your site’s emergency procedures and covers their specific work risks. 
• Worker training and competency: verify that everyone has the right tickets, licenses,  and training for the job. 
• Safe use of Machinery, Equipment & Plant: ask for recent maintenance and pre-start checks. 
• Hazardous substances: subbies must provide a current Hazardous Substance Inventory. Make sure they have the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible and a clear plan for safe storage, handling, and emergency spills while working on site.  

It’s not just about the paperwork, you need to verify that those safety controls are actually happening on the ground. Chasing paperwork for dozens of subbies gets messy fast. Use HazardCo’s automated Pre-Qualification tools to sort your contractors before work starts and ditch the paper chase for good.

Setting up your site 

Before the first shovel hits the dirt, sort your site fencing, toilets, handwashing stations, and emergency gear. Jump into the HazardCo Hub, enter your project details and select your site hazards.Once you assign your contractors in the Hub, they’ll have instant access to the SSSP through their own app. Last step: pop your HazardCo Hazard Board (with its site-specific QR code) right at the entrance.

Running the build 

Once work is underway, use the HazardCo App to keep safety rolling:

• • Scan in and out: Get everyone to scan the QR code on the Hazard Board for a quick digital induction and daily check-in.
  • Risk Assessments: Workers complete a quick Risk Assessment on the app before starting work to make sure their area is safe.
  • High-risk work: Use the Task Analysis feature for high-risk jobs. Make sure everyone involved reads and follows it.
  • Site Reviews: Run regular Site Reviews to spot hazards before they cause harm 
  • Toolbox Meetings: Log your Toolbox Meetings in the app to record that you’ve communicated and listened to your crew’s feedback. 
  • Incident reporting: If a near-miss or incident happens, log it immediately. This keeps your register updated and allows you to take action to prevent it from happening again. 

The HazardCo App makes it easy by replacing messy paperwork with just a few easy taps to keep your records up to date.

Subbies: Working on someone else’s site 

If you’re a subby moving between jobs, you’re still responsible for your own work area. Use the HazardCo App every morning to keep yourself safe and your records tidy:

• Scan in: Use the QR code on the Hazard Board to get the latest site hazards from the builder and complete your digital induction.
• Risk Assessment: Run a quick Risk Assessment in the app before you start work to make sure your specific area is safe.
• Follow the Plan: Read and follow the builder’s Task Analysis for high-risk jobs. If you’re doing your own high-risk work, fill out your own Task Analysis in the app.
• Report on the spot: Log any near-misses or incidents immediately. This keeps the main contractor informed and protects your business.

Working on the go? Grab the HazardCo Team Pack Plus. Built specifically for subbies, it gives you a professional site setup. It includes a portable Hazard Board, first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, an air horn, and a team pack booklet. It’s the easiest way to show you’ve got your safety sorted.

We’ve got your back

Good health and safety is about keeping your people safe, not drowning in paperwork. Your HazardCo membership comes with unlimited support from people who know their stuff, including 24/7 incident support whenever you need a hand.

Give the team a buzz on 0800 555 339 or email us at info@hazardco.com.