In the UK construction sector, there are two widely-recognised industry certifications which contractors can achieve that make it easier to manage supply chains. They’re called SSIP and CAS.
We’re frequently asked about the difference between the two certifications, and also how PAS 91 relates to these certifications. So, here are the differences between SSIP, PAS 91, and CAS…
SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement and is widely recognised as the industry standard pre-qualification Health & Safety assessment scheme as it’s endorsed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Participants of the scheme provide assessment schemes to contractors throughout the supply chain, illustrating competence and trustworthiness when it comes to contractors working in the supply chain to demonstrate compliance with Health & Safety regulations.
Obtaining an SSIP certificate demonstrates that you’ve committed to occupational Health & Safety practices by having your Health & Safety management system assessed in line with the SSIP Core Criteria.
The Common Assessment Standard (CAS) was first introduced by Build UK and the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) in an effort to reduce the duplication and inefficiencies incurred at the prequalification stage, that is costing the construction industry.
CAS consists of an industry-agreed set of questions based on existing PQ questionnaires, including PAS 91, and corresponding assessment standards. The aim of CAS is to reduce duplication, time and cost.
A CAS certificate issued by a Build UK approved assessment scheme demonstrates compliance across a range of aspects including all those set out by SSIP and PAS 91.
Introduced by the British Standards Institute (BSI), PAS 91 stands for Publicly Available Specification for pre-qualification questionnaires. This questionnaire is split into modules and helps clients to manage compliance across multiple areas of compliance.
PAS 91 aims to address challenges businesses face when completing pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs). The questionnaire has set high standards for risk management, and it also helps contractors reduce duplication when applying for contracts as the standards are set across the industry.
Here at Smas Worksafe, we work with thousands of contractors and help them to transform the Health & Safety of their businesses with our Worksafe PQQ packages… and we want to help you too.
Contact us today and speak to one of our experts to find out more. Let’s make sure your business is compliant and, ultimately, secure you more tenders.
