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RO  
#1 Posted : 16 September 2010 13:48:50(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
RO

I understand that this is a quality issue but would like some advice. At the end of a constrution project what parts of the site safety files should be archived and for how long. We currently keep everything for 3 years but would like to know if this is too much.
Ron Hunter  
#2 Posted : 16 September 2010 14:00:21(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Ron Hunter

It seems you may be missing the point of H&S Files (CDM). The H&S File must be maintained for the Structure and is not the "product" of a Construction Project unless a new build. Otherwise, the information for the H&S File arising from a Notifiable Project needs to be dovetailed into a maintained File. Over time, existing information will be superseded and replaced (upgraded boilers and the like) and it is conceivable that other minor (non-notifiable) Projects will also have an impact on the File (e.g. 'as built' drawings for electrical installations etc.). Bottom-line, H&S Files are to be maintained for the structure on 'cradle to grave' basis.
RO  
#3 Posted : 16 September 2010 14:03:39(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
RO

Ron, I understand the safety file for the building. I am talking about the files where you would keep: the construction phase plan, risk assessments, method statements, induction records,site inspection records, tool box talk records etc. You must keep all of these to protect yourselves against claims in the future and to prove that you manage sites in the correct way.
bob youel  
#4 Posted : 16 September 2010 15:04:13(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bob youel

Please confirm; Does your term 'site safety files' relate to CDM only as records of first aid, RIDDOR etc which form part of a professional system above and beyond the basic CDM areas but are not CDM may be required to be kept for longer periods
boblewis  
#5 Posted : 16 September 2010 22:12:43(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
boblewis

Bob is absolutely correct in that none of the information you list is part of the H&S file. There are aspects however that you may wish to keep for accident reporting records etc and evidence of implementation of some control measures say for noise or similar. Bob
RO  
#6 Posted : 17 September 2010 08:25:41(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
RO

Every construction site would have the safety file which relates to the building. AND a series of safety management files which show the procedures and forms used as part of the safety management system. I have had the answer off our insurers. They expect the files where we keep records of our management system to kept for 15 years to protect against future safety claims.
boblewis  
#7 Posted : 17 September 2010 10:51:32(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
boblewis

Sharks But your insurer could easily be wrong with such a blanket statement for such files could include such as Occ Health records that could have 40 or 50 year retention requirements. Your use of the term site safety files is confusing however I know of no insurer that requires documented management systems to be kept on a site by site basis only the relevant records and supporting information. Of course if you are writing a completely new management system for each site then you do have a problem. Bob
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