When it comes to construction and procurement, having the right contractors to carry out the job is the difference between success and failure. That’s where SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) comes in.

But what does it mean for you, and why should you consider hiring an SSIP approved contractor for your next project? Let’s break down some of the key benefits of choosing approved SSIP contractors.

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What is SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement)?

SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) is a collective of Health & Safety pre-qualification schemes. It was established to streamline the process of assessing and certifying suppliers and contractors, particularly in the construction industry. Essentially, it acts as a seal of approval, assuring clients that those involved in a project are competent and reliable regarding Health & Safety standards.

See our blog on what is SSIP certification for more information.

How do contractors achieve SSIP accreditation?

For contractors to achieve SSIP accreditation, they must undergo a rigorous evaluation process and meet SSIP requirements, also known as ‘SSIP Core Criteria’, to demonstrate compliance with Health & Safety legislation. This includes:

  • Compliance with Health & Safety Legislation: Contractors must demonstrate full compliance with relevant Health & Safety laws and regulations.
  • Effective Health & Safety Systems: Contractors need to have robust systems in place to manage Health & Safety risks effectively throughout their operations.
  • Risk Assessments: Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards is essential for SSIP approved accreditation.
  • Staff Training and Information: Ensuring that employees receive appropriate training and possess the necessary skills to carry out their duties safely is a key aspect of the criteria.
  • Accident and Incident Reporting: Contractors must have procedures in place for promptly reporting and investigating accidents and incidents on-site.
  • Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Compliance with PPE requirements and using PPE correctly is vital for maintaining a safe working environment.
  • Emergency Procedures: Having clear and effective emergency procedures in place to respond to potential emergencies, such as fires or medical incidents, is essential.
  • Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintaining accurate documentation and records related to Health & Safety practices and incidents is a requirement for SSIP accreditation.

Why hire an SSIP approved contractor?

There are many reasons for companies to hire an SSIP approved contractor beyond just compliance.

1. Committed to Health & Safety standards

When you hire an SSIP approved contractor, you’re partnering with a team that prioritises Health & Safety above all else. Their commitment is evident in their adherence to stringent protocols outlined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), meaning they have all the necessary policies and procedures in place for safe work practices.

2. Compliance with regulations

Understanding and complying with Health & Safety regulations can be daunting. However, with an SSIP approved contractor by your side, you can rest assured that all requirements are met. From COSHH assessments to Working at Height regulations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, certified contractors usually display an approved certificate or badge as proof of compliance.

3. Enhanced business reputation

In today’s competitive landscape, reputation is everything. By aligning yourself with an SSIP approved contractor, you signal to clients and stakeholders that safety and quality are non-negotiable. This can enhance your brand image and open doors to new tendering opportunities, fostering trust and confidence between businesses and clients.

4. Seamless tendering process

Completing tenders can be a time-consuming task. One of the biggest benefits of hiring an SSIP approved contractor is they’ve got the right Health & Safety credentials, policies and procedures for the job. This also proves to clients that they are not a risk to your supply chain.

5. Risk reduction

Construction projects inherently carry risks but approved SSIP contractors excel at identifying and mitigating risks and hazards. Their robust safety measures minimise the likelihood of accidents or incidents, protecting both personnel and assets. This, in turn, results in smoother and more efficient operations overall.

6. Time and cost savings

Time is money, as the saying goes. By hiring an SSIP approved contractor, you not only save time on administrative tasks but also reduce the risk of costly delays or accidents. Moreover, SSIP removes duplicate assessments, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively to fuel your business’s growth — investing in safety now can significantly pay off down the line.

Are you looking to get SSIP certification?

If you’re a contractor looking to obtain SSIP accreditation, then get in touch with Smas Worksafe. We’ve helped tens of thousands of contractors sign up across the UK, and your business could be next.

In addition to assisting contractors in obtaining SSIP accreditation, we also offer comprehensive supply chain management services designed to help businesses find SSIP-approved contractors, ensuring that all partners meet stringent health and safety standards — saving you time and reducing risks.

While you’re here, why not check out our WorkSafe PQQ package? This is a bespoke solution that can help prove your business is reliable, ethical, sustainable and compliant to complete the work that has been awarded.

We also offer a wide range of online CITB Training courses for Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme and Refresher Courses (SSSTS & SSSTS-R), Site Manager Safety Training Course (SMSTS) and Health & Safety Awareness (HSA).

Request a quote or call our team on 01752 643962 and we’ll be happy to help.