Hi All, Looking for some practical guidance on the use and in particular vetting of German based companies that will be sending their employees to the UK to install equipment that they have designed and built in Germany. I have sent them our standard contractor approval questionnaire and it has come back with very little information filled in and zero supporting evidence. I'm really trying to get some advice on how far I reasonably have to go with this, I know that they should be complying with the same standard of legislation as us, however it does not appear to be implemented with the same vigour as it is in the UK. I'm thinking that maybe because we will only be using them on the initial install in a brand new facility (restriced access) and then possibly during the warranty period if there's any problems, it would be acceptable to just get a copy of their insurance details and training records for evidence of competency. They don't appear to understand what a risk assessment and method statement is, how do I deal with this side of it, has anybody experience with this and offer some practical advice please. PS. not an option to shop around, about 18 months too late, contracts etc placed before I joined company, and they are due to be on site next month. Solo.

Thanks for your comments Paul, very helpful and appreciated.

Chazmack Could be that the German contractor can't understand your UK H&S speak. Possibly you could revisit your questionnaire and link back to the requirements of the relevant directives, e.g. for risk assessment, the EC Framework Directive. Regards, Peter

Yes, probably an older moment! P

I'm a German Safety Adviser and your business partner should be fully aware that he needs to cooperate with you (in accordance with their HSW Regulations (Arbeitsschutzgesetz)). He possibly doesn't fully your request (the translation of risk assessment is "Gefährdungsbeuerteilung"). If you decide to come to Germany to meet up with your client and need some assistance then give me a call Manny