Without a robust system in place, managing this influx can be chaotic. To ensure your end-of-year projects run smoothly and safely, a solid compliance checklist isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Here are five key areas to focus on.
1. Verify Pre-qualification Before Arrival
The most critical compliance step happens before your contractors even set foot on site. Please don’t wait until the first day of the project to discover their insurance has lapsed. Proactively collect and verify all essential documents, including public liability insurance, workers’ compensation, relevant licenses, and safety certifications. This is your first and best line of defense against risk.
2. Mandate Site-Specific Inductions
Never assume a contractor understands the unique hazards of your workplace. A mandatory, site-specific safety induction ensures everyone is aware of your emergency procedures, known hazards, required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and reporting protocols. A consistent induction process is key to establishing a strong safety culture from the moment they arrive.
3. Formalise High-Risk Work with Permits
For any non-routine, high-risk tasks—such as hot work, confined space entry, or working at heights—a formal Permit to Work system is non-negotiable. Paper-based permits can easily be misplaced, creating a serious liability. A digital permit system ensures a clear, time-stamped audit trail from approval to completion.
4. Maintain Real-Time, On-Site Visibility
In an emergency, knowing exactly who is on your site is critical. A paper sign-in sheet at the front gate is simply not enough for an accurate evacuation headcount. A digital sign-in system provides a live, real-time register of all contractors, accessible from any device, ensuring you can account for everyone’s safety when it matters most.
5. Ensure a Controlled Sign-Out and Handover
The project isn’t finished until the contractor has formally signed out and the work area has been declared safe. This final step closes the loop on any active work permits and confirms that all equipment has been removed and no new hazards have been introduced, ensuring a safe handover of the site.
Managing this checklist with spreadsheets and clipboards is a recipe for error. MRI OnLocation centralises and automates this entire process. From digital pre-qualification and online inductions to permit management and a live site register, it gives you complete control.
Don’t let compliance slip during the year-end rush. Contact Time & People today to see how you can enter the holiday season with the confidence that your site is secure, compliant, and safe.
