Posted By Robert I thought that the idea of safety method statements, risk assessments etc were to inform and reassure the client that any works to be undertaken are carried out with safety and common sense in mind. Not so. "Dear Client this is how we do our work safely on your site!" "Do you agree?" Yes / No / File. For the purpose of this contract the answer is "File". May we proceed? Like most safety plans and risk assessments, they're "filed away" and only brought to light during a "finger pointing exercise" if something goes wrong. Surely if clients' demand that their contractors provide method statements etc, of which, alot of effort and time is spent, then clients' safety and project managers should reciprocate by agreeing or otherwise to contractor method statements etc. It could protect both parties. The biggest problem that I encounter is the "Project Manager" who only wears the safety hat during "planned visits" and is more concerned with time, targets and money. It makes me think of a safety video I saw many years ago I think was called "Whose' fault is it really?" It was all about collective responsibilities. Don't get me wrong. there are alot of really good safety guys out there who do take time and do care. Cynical and frustrated, Robert

Posted By Robert Rob, you've missed my gripe. The term "file" is used by me in the context that the client can't be bothered to read the contents, let alone be bothered to even consider monitoring a level of risk. The attitude seems that they've got the safety plan etc, stick it in the drawer, now let's get on with the work. How many clients do you know that even bother to go through a risk evaluation after having received the necessary paperwork from a contractor?

Posted By Ron Hunter Yes, part of function of these documents should be to demonstrate contractor's competencies for job specifics - client who doesn't bother to read this (or do any pre-tender contractor evaluation) is storing up trouble! Could be wasting money (as well as dicing with prosecution) too if he doesn't bother to check on the contractors activities during the work - client may have paid for a very safe method, the unscrupulous contractor could be merrily 'cutting corners' on site. Contractor of course has to be using the same method statements etc to inform & instruct his employees of safe system of work to be applied on site.

Posted By TBC Not being 'Naive' We have a job for life - if everybody complied with all the rules and regs out there, we would be out of a job.