Who can use this checklist?
This checklist can be used by all employers who engage contractors. The checklist should be used in conjunction with the Contractor Management Procedure, the Contractor Induction Checklist and the Approved Contractors Register.
Commentary
Under the relevant health and safety legislation (‘Legislation’) and associated regulations and codes of practice, the primary duty imposed on a person conducting a business or undertaking is to eliminate or minimise, as far as reasonably practicable, the risks to health and safety in the workplace.
It is common misconception that a business wipes its hands clean of safety obligations under the Legislation by engaging contractors and relying on the contractors to fulfil their safety obligations.
The effective management of contractors requires a review of the work to be performed, the contractor’s qualifications to perform the work safely and whether they hold appropriate licenses and permits.
Businesses should use this checklist prior to engaging contractors to assist in assessing and evaluating contractors against specific contract requirements before work commences. This checklist can also assist with establishing a list of preferred and authorised contractors to perform work for your company.
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