Case Study: Enhancing Compliance and Safety in Construction Projects in Leeds
When a client undertaking the demolition of an existing garage and significant roofing repairs to a listed building in Leeds approached Ignite Consultancy Services for help, our team identified critical gaps in their compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015). These gaps presented not only legal risks but also serious safety concerns that required immediate attention.
At the client’s request, we have not included any identifying information.
The challenge
Our initial audit, conducted in early September 2024, revealed multiple compliance issues that threatened both worker safety and project timelines:
1. Unclear Roles and Responsibilities
Duty holders' roles lacked clear definition, creating confusion and inadequate safety oversight
Absence of formal written appointments led to significant compliance gaps and accountability issues
2. Deficient Pre-Construction Documentation
Essential safety reports, including structural integrity assessments and asbestos surveys, were missing
Contractors were operating without critical safety data, significantly increasing the risk of hazardous conditions
3. Ineffective Construction Phase Planning
The Construction Phase Plan (CPP) was outdated and failed to outline structured timelines and key safety measures
Lack of coordination between contractors created workflow inefficiencies and safety blind spots
4. Inadequate Health & Safety File Management
No systematic approach to updating safety records created gaps in real-time documentation
Fragmented information management hindered effective decision-making during critical phases
5. Weak Risk and Incident Management
Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) were not properly documented before work commenced
Absence of a structured incident reporting system reduced the ability to identify and mitigate recurring hazards
Our solution
Ignite Consultancy Services developed a comprehensive compliance strategy tailored to the unique challenges of this Leeds construction project:
1. Strengthened Leadership and Accountability
Clearly defined and documented duty holder responsibilities within a detailed Project Directory
Established a structured review system to ensure ongoing accountability and compliance through every project phase
2. Improved Pre-Construction Safety Documentation
Implemented a Pre-Construction Safety Checklist to ensure all necessary assessments were completed before work began
Required mandatory submission and verification of all structural and environmental reports before project initiation
Introduced specialist asbestos surveying for the listed building components
3. Revised and Enforced Construction Phase Planning
Updated the CPP to include a comprehensive project timeline, contractor-specific roles, and clearly defined safety protocols
Introduced periodic reviews and audits of the CPP to maintain up-to-date compliance with CDM 2015
Created clear communication channels between all stakeholders
4. Implemented a Dynamic Health & Safety File System
Established a digital Health & Safety File updated in real-time and accessible to all stakeholders
Required documented evidence of risk mitigation measures and ongoing safety audits
Created a centralised repository for all compliance documentation
5. Enhanced Risk and Incident Management
Enforced pre-work approval of RAMS to ensure risk assessments were completed before any activity began
Introduced a mandatory incident tracking and reporting system, ensuring swift corrective actions to prevent recurring risks
Developed site-specific safety protocols addressing the unique challenges of working on a listed building in Leeds
Results & Impact
By implementing these enhanced recommendations, the project achieved remarkable improvements:
100% CDM 2015 Compliance: All regulatory requirements were met, eliminating legal risks
Zero Safety Incidents: The enhanced safety protocols prevented workplace accidents
15% Reduction in Project Timeline: Improved coordination and clear responsibilities eliminated delays
Successful Project Completion: The demolition and roof repairs were completed without regulatory issues
Knowledge Transfer: Site teams gained valuable insights into best practices for compliance and safety in construction
Key takeaways for Leeds construction projects
This case study highlights several crucial lessons for construction projects in Leeds, particularly those involving historic or listed buildings:
Defined leadership roles ensure project accountability and streamlined decision-making, particularly important when navigating Leeds specific building regulations for listed structures.
Comprehensive safety documentation prevents risks and improves contractor preparedness, especially crucial when dealing with older buildings that may contain hazardous materials common in Leeds historic structures.
Regular audits and process improvements are essential for maintaining CDM 2015 compliance and adapting to the unique challenges presented by urban construction sites in Leeds.
Proactive compliance management creates safer worksites, reduces legal exposure, and ultimately delivers more successful project outcomes within Leeds complex regulatory environment.
Spark your construction project's success
Ignite Consultancy Services specialises in compliance and safety in construction projects in Leeds, Glasgow and throughout the UK. Our expert team brings over 25 years of experience in creating safer, more efficient construction sites while ensuring full regulatory compliance.
Whether you're planning a new construction project, renovation, or demolition, our consultants can help you navigate the complex regulatory landscape - efficiently and cost effectively - while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Contact Ignite Consultancy Services for a no-obligation consultation and discover how our expertise in compliance and safety in construction can transform your next project.