As principle contractor on a CDM project within a large factory, are we responsible for the clients own day to day contractors that arrive on site to do any maintainence work or new installation work that does not fall within the projects scope of works or remit? The client has been sending their day to day contractors to the PC for induction. All cdm work takes place within fenced off, signed and segregated areas inside of the factory which is not yet in production and are running trails.

Paul 'Principal' Contractor If the Client engaged contractors are not working within the PC's site (therefore not under his control), I can't see why the PC needs to induct / manage their activities? Unless their work has an impact on the PC's work or vice verca?

"The clients contractors do not work within the CDM areas !" In that case I think the client has got mixed up. Does the client normally have an induction for contractors. In situations like this I have done the opposite, the contractors are on my site and so they go through my induction. The PC can add any extras he wants in regards of the CDM project. I suppose also the PC might just want me to add something about his CDM work to our induction

You may however be sharing power sources and there may be interruptions to that power. You're also "sharing" emergency procedures (fire at least). Where's the welfare? 'Induction' - NO. Cooperation and Coordination - YES, and therefore reasonable that other contractors are directed to you (presumably the largest presence on site) for appropriate liason and coordination of actvities?

I would tend to agree with Ron on this one, Co-operation and co-ordination and ensuring the safety of others not in their employment. The contractual element of this discussion is also a very good point raised. Can you not justify your own decision with that of a risk register or similar sorts? At least this would give you a starting point. using the program of works would help with the co-ordination of the project in terms of ensuring others are not affected. I had just the other day a safety adviser of mine being led by the client as to what to do in a certain circumstance instead of not making definitive decision. Sometimes its the blind leading the blind, no offence meant :-)>.... Good luck.