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Last updated: 6 March 2025
What is a construction phase plan?
A Construction Phase Plan (often referred to as a CPP) is an important document to get to grips with. Read on to find out more about what a construction phase plan is and how to write one.
A CPP is a crucial document for managing health and safety risks during a construction project phase. And thus, it's often handled by those who have trained to become a construction manager.
It is typically written up by the principal contractors. Principal contractors are legally obligated to prepare a CPP because they manage the overall project and its safety.
Why do you need a construction phase plan?
A CPP ensures the safety of everyone involved in a construction project. Safety is the top priority. In the UK, a CPP is a legal requirement for most construction projects.
Identifying and managing risks is a key part of a CPP. It helps prevent accidents and injuries. A CPP also helps communicate safety information to everyone working on the project.
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Who needs a construction phase plan?
A CPP is not needed for every construction project. Understanding which projects require a CPP is essential. The need for a CPP depends on the project's size, complexity, and the level of risk involved.
For large and complex projects, a CPP is a must. Examples include skyscraper construction or major infrastructure projects.
Smaller projects with fewer risks might not need a formal CPP. But safety should never be overlooked.
Projects involving temporary works, occupied premises, infrastructure, public events, renovations, and projects with bespoke requirements typically require a CPP.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority. When in doubt, consult with health and safety experts to determine whether a CPP is necessary for your construction project.
What does a construction phase plan include?
Your construction phase plan will include lots of different details, covering everything there is to know about your project.
From key personnel to hazards, everything should go into this document. Here’s what you would typically find in a CPP:
Project details
A CPP starts with project info, like location, start and end dates, and project size.
Key personnel
List key people responsible for safety, like the principal contractor and designers.
Hazards and risks
Identify potential hazards and risks, such as the challenges posed by your current construction plant, working at heights, using heavy machinery, etc...
Safety measures
Detail safety measures and controls, like protective gear, training, and emergency procedures.
Site rules
Explain site-specific rules, like restricted areas, vehicle routes, and noise limits.
Emergency procedures
What to do in emergencies? Fire, first aid, and evacuation plans are essential.
Monitoring and review
Describe how safety will be monitored and regularly reviewed to ensure effectiveness.
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How long does it take to create a construction phase plan?
The time needed to write a CPP depends on the project's size and complexity. Small projects take less time than larger ones, but timeframes can be reduced with the help of construction apps.
It’s best to plan and prepare the CPP before construction work even begins. This gives you room to amend it once work begins.
The time it takes to draft and get your CPP signed off will depend on how much needs to be covered.
You should also be aware that a CPP can change during the project as new risks emerge or conditions change. Collaborating with the principal contractor, designers, and workers is crucial for your project’s success.
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Construction phase plan example
Here's a simplified example to help you understand what a Construction Phase Plan might look like.
Project Details
Project: Office Building Expansion
Location: City Centre
Start Date: 1st May 2025
End Date: 30th September 2025
Size: 3-story, 10,000 sq. ft. expansion
Key Personnel
Principal Contractor: ABC Construction Ltd.
Designer: XYZ Architects
Health and Safety Manager: John Smith
Hazards and Risks
Working at Heights:
Risk: Falls from height
Control: Safety harnesses, guardrails
Heavy Machinery:
Risk: Machinery accidents
Control: Trained operators, safety zones
Electrics:
Risk: Electrical shocks or fires
Control: Inspections, qualified electricians
Safety Measures
Protective Gear: Hard hats, high-visibility vests, safety boots
Training: All workers to undergo site induction and safety training
First Aid: Well-stocked first aid kits on site
Fire Safety: Fire extinguishers and alarms installed
Emergency Procedures: Evacuation plan in case of fire or other emergencies
Site Rules
Restricted Areas: No entry without permission
Vehicle Routes: Designated paths for vehicles
Noise Limits: Quiet hours between 10 pm and 7 am
Emergency Procedures
Fire: Raise alarm, evacuate, and use fire extinguishers if safe
First Aid: Call for help, administer basic first aid
Evacuation: Follow evacuation routes to assembly points
Monitoring and Review
Regular safety inspections by the Health and Safety Manager
Weekly safety meetings to discuss any issues or changes
This is a simplified example. Your actual CPP may be more detailed, tailored to your specific project.
How can Checkatrade help your construction business?
And there you have it – you should now know everything about construction phase plans. But did you know that you can learn even more with Checkatrade?
With various discounts on training and other similar blogs to this one, you can level up your skills quickly.
Get in touch with our team today to learn more about what we can offer you.
And don’t forget to browse our other construction and building blogs as well. Check out our guides on construction insurance and how to start a construction management company today.
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