Why Health and Safety Planning Matters for Every Construction Project
No matter the size of your project, construction work is one of the most hazardous industries in the UK. Poor health and safety planning isn’t just risky — it’s illegal. The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) exist to prevent accidents, ensure worker welfare, and protect you from significant legal and financial consequences.
Avoid Costly Fines and Penalties
Protect Workers and Site Visitors
Meet Your Legal Responsibilities as a Client or Builder
Create Safer, More Efficient Worksites
Enhance Your Professional Reputation
Compliance with CDM regulations isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about building better — safer — projects from the ground up. At Compass HSC, we help you put the right systems in place without unnecessary paperwork or confusion, so you can focus on what you do best: delivering quality construction work on time and on budget.
Our Practical CDM Support Services
Whether you need full CDM management or just guidance to get started, Compass HSC offers flexible support packages tailored to the scale and needs of your project. We work alongside developers, builders, architects, and domestic clients to ensure full compliance and safer project delivery.
Principal Designer Support
We act as your expert Principal Designer, helping coordinate health and safety during the planning and design phase.
Site Safety Documentation (RAMS, CPP)
We prepare all required RAMS, Construction Phase Plans (CPP), and welfare documentation, tailored to your project.
Full CDM Management
From notifications to ongoing site checks, we handle every compliance detail so you stay protected.
CDM Advisory for Homeowners & Small Developers
If you’re unsure where you stand under CDM, we offer tailored advice to help you meet your duties quickly and affordably.
Getting CDM Support is Simple
We make CDM compliance straightforward. Our proven process removes the guesswork and ensures you’re covered from start to finish, no matter the size of your project.
Free Consulatation
Book a quick, no-obligation call. We’ll review your project plans and identify your CDM duties.
Tailored Safety Plan
We prepare the documentation, plans, and notifications you need — tailored to your project.
Ongoing Compliance Support
We stay by your side during the build phase, ensuring health and safety obligations are fully met.
Who We Support
CDM regulations affect far more people than most realise. Whether you’re managing a large domestic renovation or simply overseeing a team of subcontractors, you’re likely to hold specific legal responsibilities. We work with a range of clients across the construction sector:
Small Developers
If you’re managing multiple contractors on domestic or small commercial projects, you may be classed as the Client under CDM — with legal duties to manage site safety. We help you meet them efficiently.
Self-Employed Builders
Even single contractors have CDM obligations. If you’re taking on larger projects or coordinating subcontractors, Compass HSC ensures you stay compliant and protect your reputation.
Domestic Clients
Homeowners who commission work are considered Clients under CDM. We explain your duties clearly and can act as Principal Designer/Contractor if needed to simplify the process.
Architects & Designers (on D&B projects)
Working on a design and build project? You likely have legal duties under CDM 2015. We provide support to ensure you meet your professional responsibilities without hassle.
When Health and Safety Fails: Real Case Studies
CDM regulations are not theoretical — real builders and developers face real consequences when health and safety duties are neglected. Here are just a few recent examples of what can go wrong when projects fail to meet compliance standards.Â
Sherwood Homes (Preston/Tarporley)
Fined £76,000 for multiple failings across two domestic sites — including lack of site management and failure to notify HSE.
Nofax Enterprises (London)
Fined £63,000 after repeated serious health and safety breaches, including dangerous work at height and silica dust exposure.
Greenlife Property Developments (South Wales)
Fined £40,000 for ignoring HSE enforcement notices related to excavation safety.
G Mutch Developments (Manchester)
Community Order and fines for illegal asbestos removal without proper licensing and protection measures.
These aren’t isolated incidents — the Health and Safety Executive actively prosecutes cases where CDM compliance is ignored. Avoid fines, reputational damage, and serious site risks by partnering with Compass HSC for reliable, practical health and safety support.
Not Sure If You’re CDM Compliant?
Many developers and builders aren’t even aware when CDM duties apply to their projects — until it’s too late. Download our free CDM Compliance Checklist and take the first step toward protecting your project, your workers, and your business.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDM Compliance
Still have questions about CDM regulations and your responsibilities? We’ve answered some of the most common queries below. If you’re unsure about anything, our team is ready to help with practical, no-nonsense advice.
Who is responsible for CDM compliance on a domestic project?
Typically the Client (the person commissioning the work) holds duties. If multiple contractors are involved, a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor must also be appointed.
Does CDM apply to small projects like extensions or loft conversions?
Yes. CDM 2015 covers all construction work, including domestic projects of all sizes — even small refurbishments.
What happens if I ignore CDM regulations?
You risk enforcement action by the HSE, including fines, project shutdowns, or even prosecution. Compliance protects both workers and your business.
What does a Principal Designer do?
The Principal Designer manages health and safety during the design phase, coordinating designers and ensuring risks are properly addressed early.
How much does CDM support cost?
We offer flexible packages to suit different project sizes and budgets. Book a free consultation and we’ll recommend the most cost-effective option for your needs.
Ready to Protect Your Project? Let’s Get Started.
Book your free 15-minute CDM consultation today. We’ll help you understand your responsibilities, avoid costly mistakes, and put a clear, compliant plan in place.