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Outsource Health and Safety
Outsource health and safety and make your life a lot easier.
The pros of outsourcing definitely outweigh the cons, but before you form a partnership with a Health & Safety consultant, you must learn all you can about outsourcing. Once you are fully informed, you can decide if outsourcing is right for your business and how it can help you.
Following is a list of pros and cons of outsourcing:
Pros of Outsourcing
Up-to-date professional advice when you need it
Gives you access to skilled professionals at a low cost
The confidence in knowing your legal duties are covered
Reduces your cost of doing business, as you save on infrastructure, workforce, hiring costs, training costs, and technology and software investments
Allows you to focus more on your core business functions
Cons of Outsourcing
You will have to rely on the expertise of another company without fully understanding all the detail yourself
You need to ensure that your outsource partner is available for your working hours, not just theirs
You need to understand turn around times and accept them
You may not be able to get what you want when you want it
You have to trust the information they provide is accurate and up-to-date
Outsourcing your Health & Safety resources can give your business the competitive edge it requires to win work and be successful on tenders.
If anything, the disadvantages of outsourcing give you the opportunity to think before-hand about the things you need to keep in mind when selecting an outsourcing partner.
Seguro Health and Safety Advisor Service
Here at Seguro, we pride ourselves on being able to support all businesses regardless of their size. We can provide your business with less than five employees a service, ensuring you meet all your Health & Safety needs.
Our service provides you with:
Support to implement new documentation into your business
Provide support ongoing should you need it for all Health & Safety advice.
Provide off-the-shelf risk assessments and method statements should they be needed (bespoke ones are chargeable)
Enable you to name us should you need to on PQQ documentation
Provide you with General pre-prepared COSHH from our library
We are available throughout the working day by email or telephone, whichever way you prefer to communicate.
This service is available to anyone who needs it, and there is a fixed cost for everyone.
This service is also FREE with any accreditation we submit for you so if you are looking to get CHAS or a similar SSIP we can assist with that and provide this service for FREE.
If you need more information about SSIP, we have lots of blogs to help or you can visit SSIP directly.
Included in our safety advisor service
Put Seguro down as your named health & safety advisor.
Use our name when filling out pre-tender qualification questionnaires.
Use a CV from one of our Consultants.
We are here as back-up should you require advice and guidance on health & safety issues.
Outsource Health and Safety Support
Complete the form, and we will get in touch and give you free advice and direction on outsourcing your health and safety.
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Risk Assessments and Method Statements
Here at Seguro we know that Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS) can seem a daunting task when you have to start them from scratch. We have developed a library of documents that can be used within your business on a day to day basis.
We constantly update our shop section with the latest activity based ones we have created.
Our RAMS can be purchased individually for only £10 + vat or in a pack depending on what you need.
If you are unsure if we have the document you need please visit ourSHOPand see what you can find.
We also offer a RAMS Packwhich contains 65 templates covering a range of subjects.
Standard RAMS
We provide a wide range of RAMS in template format on our website. Each can be five to sixteen pages long and contain between 3,000 and 9,000 words.
The RAMS are within a template and cover all the principal risks and methods to carry out a specific job. The RAM Templates need the client’s involvement as there will be a comprehensive sequence of work that could apply. As the client, you would be responsible for ensuring that this sequence was relevant to yourself and, if not amended to reflect your process.
Our standard RAMS cost from £6 to £12 per RAM or are provided free as part of our Safety Advisory service or Competent person service.
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How much does SMAS cost?
SMAS cost and Seguro Costs
Fixed Fee for helping with your accreditation, which will depend on the number of your employees.
eLearning may be required
SMAS Costs
Worksafe
Worksafe PQQ
The cost of your SMAS accreditation is based on the size of your workforce, so there’s no one-size-fits-all price.
The difference between the types is described below.
Rather than guess or overpay, the quickest way to get clarity is to complete our short form.
You can find a link in the main menu or on this page.
We’ll ask a few simple questions and provide you with a clear, accurate cost breakdown, so you know exactly what to budget, with no surprises and no obligation.
SMAS is part of the SSIP accreditation scheme known as ‘Safety Schemes In Procurement’ (SSIP). When you begin working for clients they may ask you to become a member of SSIP. This is so they can be assured that your H&S practices are up to standard with a third party certification.
As a consultant that assists with the paperwork needed we are focusing on saving our clients money where we can. SMAS is one of the most reasonable outlays for your business and to renew year on year.
If you have any questions or would like us to help you get your accreditation please get in touch on 0800 031 5404.
Why apply for your SMAS accreditation?
When you undertake your SMAS registration, you will be demonstrating that you meet the recognised standards required by any organisation looking to employ you as a contractor. Having your SMAS accreditation is almost certain to open more doors and lead to more opportunities – in turn generating more business and profit for you, ensuring your own workforce is protected by robust health and safety practices.
Submit your SMAS Accreditation with confidence
Getting SMAS approved depends on you satisfying the SMAS assessors on a wide range of compliance issues.
Which ones apply to you will depend on various factors relating to your business, so step one is to ensure you have the right support from the beginning.
We support you every step of the way
Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
A quick, easy and hassle-free process
Why partner with Seguro?
We assist with the completion of your application and prepare supporting documents on your behalf.
Up to date professional advice when you need it most
You, your directors and managers have direct access with a service provider who understands your needs
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Pre Qualification Questionnaire Guide (PQQ)
Pre-Qualification Questionnaire, also commonly know as a ‘PQQ’, is a questionnaire that companies (suppliers ) have to fill in when looking to tender for schemes they want to work on. PQQ are used when applying for an approved supplier list or when applying for most accreditation schemes. They are pro-dominantly used in the public sector, but can be used for private sector tenders too.
Filling out a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire for the public sector, is an important process as they are used as a way to standardise all suppliers and the information needed to make a decisions when appointing new contracts. As all information is standard the PQQ can help to make a short list easier as companies are able to look at information in the same format and detail.
PQQs are scored according to the answers that you give so you need to ensure they are well thought out and give the best impression you can give of your company and its capabilities.
What is asked in a PQQ?
Every PQQ you fill in is effectively your companies marketing tool, filling out the PQQ to the best of your ability will allow you to show that your company is the best choice.
In general, a PQQ will need information about your:
Status
Finances
Quality Policy
Environmental Policy
Equal Opportunities Policy
Health and Safety Policy
We provide help if needed to complete any PQQ you may have been given as well as advice in ensuring that you have all the information you may need for further Pre Qualification Questionnaires you get.
PQQ Support
Complete the form, and we will get in touch and give you free advice and direction on how to complete or how we can complete your PQQ for you.
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SMAS Accreditation Explained
What is SMAS accreditation? it is a UK health and safety pre-qualification scheme used to assess whether contractors meet recognised standards for managing health and safety. It is widely accepted across construction and related industries and is often required before contractors can tender for work.
What Is SMAS Accreditation?
SMAS stands for Safety Management Advisory Services. SMAS accreditation is SSIP-recognised, meaning it follows the SSIP Core Criteria for assessing health and safety competence.
Achieving SMAS accreditation shows clients and principal contractors that your business manages risk effectively and complies with UK health and safety legislation.
What Does SMAS Accreditation Assess?
A SMAS assessment typically reviews:
Health & Safety Policy
Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)
Training and competence records
Accident and incident reporting procedures
Arrangements for managing subcontractors
The assessment is proportionate to your business size and risk profile.
Who Needs SMAS Accreditation?
SMAS accreditation is commonly required for:
Construction contractors and subcontractors
Electrical and mechanical contractors
Facilities management and maintenance companies
Businesses working for principal contractors or local authorities
For many buyers, SMAS is a minimum entry requirement.
Is SMAS the Same as SSIP?
No. SSIP is the umbrella body, while SMAS is one of the accreditation schemes recognised under it. Holding SMAS demonstrates SSIP-aligned health and safety competence.
How Long Does SMAS Accreditation Last?
SMAS accreditation is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually to keep your compliance status current.
Benefits of SMAS Accreditation
SMAS accreditation helps contractors to:
Win more work
Reduce repeated PQQ paperwork
Demonstrate health and safety competence
Meet client and procurement requirements
Build credibility with buyers
How much does SMAS cost?
SMAS cost and Seguro Costs
Fixed Fee for helping with your accreditation, which will depend on the number of your employees.
eLearning may be required
Additional RAMS may be required
SMAS Costs
Worksafe
Worksafe PQQ
The cost of your SMAS accreditation is based on the size of your workforce, so there’s no one-size-fits-all price. The difference between the types is described below.
Rather than guess or overpay, the quickest way to get clarity is to complete our short form. You can find a link in the main menu or on this page.
We’ll ask a few simple questions and provide you with a clear, accurate cost breakdown, so you know exactly what to budget, with no surprises and no obligation.
When you undertake your SMAS registration, you will be demonstrating that you meet the recognised standards required by any organisation looking to employ you as a contractor. Having your SMAS accreditation is almost certain to open more doors and lead to more opportunities – in turn generating more business and profit for you, ensuring your own workforce is protected by robust health and safety practices.
Submit your SMAS Accreditation with confidence
Getting SMAS approved depends on you satisfying the SMAS assessors on a wide range of compliance issues.
Which ones apply to you will depend on various factors relating to your business, so step one is to ensure you have the right support from the beginning.
We support you every step of the way
Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
A quick, easy and hassle-free process
SMAS Approval Guide: How to Get SMAS Accredited
SMAS accreditation is an SSIP-recognised health and safety assessment used by clients and principal contractors to verify contractor competence. Following the correct steps helps avoid delays, failed assessments, and unnecessary costs.
Step 1: Check Whether SMAS Is Required
Before applying, confirm that SMAS is the scheme requested by your client or tender documents. Many buyers accept any SSIP scheme, while others specifically ask for SMAS.
Step 2: Appoint a Competent Person
Under Regulation 7 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, you must have access to competent health and safety advice. This can be:
An in-house competent person, or
An external health & safety consultant
SMAS will expect clear evidence of this.
Step 3: Prepare Your Core Health & Safety Documents
SMAS approval is evidence-based. You will typically need:
A current Health & Safety Policy
Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
Training and competence records
Accident and incident reporting procedures
Evidence of toolbox talks and inductions
Documents must be relevant to your actual work activities.
Step 4: Gather Company and Insurance Information
You will be asked to provide:
Company details and structure
Public and Employers’ Liability insurance certificates
Submit your application online via the SMAS portal, uploading all required documentation. Accuracy and consistency are critical at this stage.
Incomplete or generic submissions are the most common cause of delays.
Step 6: Respond to Assessor Queries
An assessor will review your submission and may raise clarification queries. Responding promptly and accurately helps keep the process moving and avoids rejection.
Step 7: Achieve SMAS Approval
Once approved, you will receive:
SMAS certification
Permission to use the SMAS logo
Inclusion on the SMAS contractor database
You can now reference SMAS in tenders and pre-qualification submissions.
Step 8: Maintain and Renew Annually
SMAS accreditation is valid for 12 months. Keep documents up to date and review your systems regularly to ensure a smooth renewal.
Common Reasons SMAS Applications Fail
Out-of-date or generic policies
Missing training records
Poorly written RAMS
No evidence of a competent person
Most failures are avoidable with proper preparation.
A Risk Assessment & Method Statement is used to describe in a logical sequence exactly how work is to be carried out using safe practices and without risks to health. It should include all the risks previously identified in the risk assessment and the measures needed to control those risks.
How do I complete a risk assessment?
To complete a risk assessment, you need to have the knowledge to identify the activities in your business, might cause harm to people and decide whether you are doing enough to prevent that harm from occurring. Once you have decided the harm that may be caused, you need to priorities these whilst identifying putting in place, appropriate and sensible control measures.
What should I include in my risk assessment?
The risk assessment you generate should include consideration for all the activities that are relevant to the work you are carrying out. You should take into account each step in your work sequence and assess what harm, how and which people can be affected. It should take into account any controls which are already in place and identify what, if any, further controls are required.
You should be able to show from your assessment that:
a thorough check was carried out
all people who might be affected by the works carried out have been considered
all significant risks have been assessed
the precautions are reasonable
the remaining risk is low
The Good News
We have over 150 comprehensive risk assessment and method statement templates. They have been developed by qualified health and safety professionals. If we dont have one you require, we can write a bespoke one for you.
The documents cover all the appropriate Control Procedures and Hazards for a typical job but can be easily edited to your needs. This is a ready-to-use document that can be implemented in your business straight away.
You can add your brand and adjust the content to fit your site constraints.
Includes:
9 to 18 pages of content
3,000 to 18,000 words
Additional Information:
The document covers all the appropriate Hazards and Control Procedures for a typical job
In “MS Word” format
Fully editable – include your company logo and details
The template should be changed to suit the specific job you are performing
Delivery Method:
Available to download instantly once purchased to your email address, ready to start editing to make specific to suit the exact job you are carrying out.
RA1 – Working at Heights
RA2 – Access and Egress
RA3 – Use of Power Tools
RA4 – Working with other Trades
RA5 – Emergency and Fire Evacuation
RA6 – Working within Domestic Properties
RA7 – Personal Safety
RA8 – Lone Working
RA9 – Contact with Biological Hazards, Asbestos etc
RA10 – Use of Wheel Mounted Equipment
RA11 – Working During Non and Poor Daylight Hours
RA12 – Housekeeping & Storage of Equipment & Materials
RA13 – Young Persons
RA14a – Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
RA14b – PPE Continued
RA15 – Mobile Tower Scaffolds
RA16 – Use of Ladders
RA17 – Use of Hand Tools
RA18 – Portable Electrical Equipment
RA19 – Cartridge Operating Tools
RA20 – Access Scaffolding
RA21 – Use of Mobile Elevated Working Platforms (MEWPS)
RA22 – Deep Excavations
RA23 – Disc Cutters and Abrasive Wheels
RA24 – Installation of Temporary Electrical Supplies
RA25 – Storage of Materials
RA26 – Company Vehicles
RA27 – Working near Water
RA28 – Work near Power Lines
RA29 – Gas Welding & Cutting Equipment
RA30 – Use of Arc Welding Equipment
RA31 – Electrical Work – Up to 415 Volts
RA32 – Cable Pulling
RA33 – Chasing out for Cable Runs
RA34 – Installation of Cable Trunking and Cable Trays
RA35 – Electrical Testing and Commissioning of Equipment
RA36 – Work in Electrical Workshop
RA37a – Use of Step Ladders
RA37b – Use of Step Ladders Continued
RA38 – Mobile Phones
RA39 – Dismountable Camera
RA40 – Mini Steps
RA41 – Small Dumpers
RA42 – Excavator used for Lifting
RA43 – Slinging of Loads
RA44 – Underground Services
RA45 – Concreting
RA46 – Mobile Cranes
RA47 – Use of Trestles
RA48 – Erection / Use of False Work
RA49 – Laying of Flags and Kerbs
RA50 – Minor Demolition
RA51 – Rendering
RA52 – Use of lifting equipment
RA53 – Asbestos Containing Material
RA54 – Disposal Fluorescent luminaries
RA55 – Disposal Skips
RA56 – Disposal Waste Materials
RA57 – Highly Flammable Liquids Storage & Use
RA58 – Lead & Lead Compounds
RA59 – LPG
RA60 – Excavators
RA61 – Control of Dust
RA62 – Fire on Site
RA63 – Offices, Welfare & Storage
RA64 – Road Transport on Site
RA65 – Working in and around occupied premises
Cant find what your looking for call Amanda for a bespoke RAMS quotation
The different between a small and a large CHAS application
Insight by
Amanda Lambert
Published on
18 October 2022
CHAS
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The different between a small and a large CHAS application
Understand the difference between a small and a large CHAS application and the impact of employee numbers on requirements. We often get companies asking us what is the difference between having 4 employees or 5 when applying for CHAS. CHAS define an employee as someone who you pay through your PAYE system, there are different assessment fees due depending on the number of employees you declare.
In particular to CHAS there is an increased number of documents you need to provide as well as evidence of your safety arrangements including Health & Safety policy.
Once you have 5 employees or more you have legal requirements under the Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1974, you need to have formal arrangements in place for competent Safety advice as well as a full Heath & Safety Management system.
Learn more about CHAS
We have a series of articles where you can learn more about CHAS. The list of articles is below:
If you are not sure which bracket you fall under, or if you have enough documentation to satisfy the assessment get in touch and we will be able to provide you with advice.
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What are Toolbox talks and why do I have to do them?
Introduction
The definition of a Toolbox Talk – An informal meeting that focuses on Health & Safety topics related to a specific job that is on site, such as workplace hazards and safe work practices. These meetings are normally less than 10 minutes (kept short) and are normally conducted at the job site prior to the job or shift starting.
Why do i have to do them? – Toolbox talks are a quick way for you to communicate to all workers on a particular site, safety work practices that are applicable to them.
Toolbox talks are focused discussions about safety topics that provide valuable insights and practical guidance that can help prevent accidents and injuries on site.
Toolbox talks can significantly enhance the safety culture onsite when conducted regularly.
Understanding the purpose of toolbox talks
The primary purpose of toolbox talks is to enhance workplace safety through education and communication. The talks are designed to inform workers about potential hazards they may encounter while performing their duties.
Organisations can create a shared understanding of risks and the importance of adhering to safety protocols by engaging the site teams in conversations about safety. This collaborative approach helps to foster a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility, leading to a more informed and vigilant workforce.
Key elements of a toolbox talk
The topics discussed directly relate to the tasks and hazards at the worksite. For example, if drainage trenches are to be excavated on site, the site supervisor can talk about the dangers, hazards, good practice and working close to deep excavations, to keep people safe.
Conducting a tool box talk requires careful planning and execution to maximise its effectiveness.
Gather necessary materials to support the discussion, such as handouts, visual aids, or tools illustrating the subject matter. Being well-prepared allows the supervisor to engage with the audience confidently.
Next, choose an appropriate setting and time for the tool box talk. Selecting a location free from distractions is essential, allowing participants to focus on the discussion.
Creating a comfortable environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences will lead to a more productive conversation.
The supervisor should encourage open communication and interaction among participants during the talk. Start with a brief introduction of the topic, followed by an engaging discussion inviting workers’ input and questions.
Use real-life examples to illustrate points and encourage employees to share their experiences related to the topic.
Tips for creating engaging and interactive tool box talks
Creating engaging and interactive tool box talks is essential for maximising their effectiveness. One key tip is to incorporate multimedia elements into the discussions. Using videos, slideshows, or infographics
Incorporate real-life case studies, sharing stories of actual incidents, whether from your own experiences or from industry examples,
Consider incorporating hands-on activities or demonstrations into tool box talks. Engaging employees in practical exercises, such as proper lifting techniques or the correct way to use safety equipment, can reinforce learning and enhance retention.
Conclusion
Harnessing the power of tool box talks for a safer and more productive worksite
In conclusion, tool box talks are an invaluable tool for enhancing safety and productivity on any worksite.
By fostering open communication and engaging employees in discussions about potential hazards and best practices, organisations can create a culture of safety that resonates throughout the workforce.
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Working at Height Training
Working at height training is critical as trips and falls within business remains one of the biggest causes of major injuries and fatalities. The most common causes include falls from ladders, roofs and through weak surfaces.
The definition of ‘Work at height’ is working anywhere; if there were no measures in place, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury (for example, a fall off a ladder when you are working on a roof).
Your responsibilities?
As an employer, you are responsible for ensuring that all work carried out by your employees has been carefully planned, looking at the risks involved. These should then be measured using a risk assessment and method statement to ensure that you are doing everything possible to manage the risk by adopting the avoid, prevent and minimise rule.
Do’s and don’ts of working at height
Do….
Ensure that when working at height, there is a safe route to and from ground level.
Try to do as much of the work required from ground level.
Ensure all equipment is suitable and maintained.
Ensure extra precautions are taken when working near weak surfaces.
Don’t…
Overload ladders refer to all mechanical information that is provided to ensure the machinery is fit for purpose.
Overreach on ladders or stepladders
Rest a ladder against weak surfaces, e.g. glazing or plastic gutters.
Use ladders or stepladders for strenuous or heavy tasks; only use them for light work of short duration (a maximum of 30 minutes at a time)
Get your people working at height trained.
Book them onto a Working At Heights E-Learning training program to protect yourself from prosecution and keep your people safe from trips and falls.
Our E-learning courses can be taken on-site, which isvery easy to do and very economical. You can try one for FREE to see the quality.
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CDM Construction Phase Plan
Know your responsibilities
As potential Contractors under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, you need to be aware of your responsibilities. The CDM Regulations require all construction projects to have a construction phase plan (CPP), you will need to ensure this is in place before any works commence.
You will need to produce a construction phase plan describing how you will manage the various safety aspects of the works. The Managing Director in conjunction with the Supervisor shall be responsible for the preparation and maintenance of secured contracts Health and Safety documentation. The Site Supervisor shall co-ordinate the activities of all operatives to ensure they comply with the construction phase plan including contract Health and Safety requirements and legislation, plus check on the provisions of information and training of all employees, where appropriate, as well as subcontractor’s health and safety, when appointed.
When/if acting as Principal Contractor the following protocol will be adopted:
Develop and maintain a Construction Phase Plan as required by The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015
Through on-site management ensure that every contractor complies with the rules set out in the health and safety plan.
Ensure co-operation between all contractors;
Taken steps to ensure that only authorised persons are allowed onto the construction site area.
Ensure that the particulars of the F10 Notification are displayed in a prominent location on the site where they can be read by any person working on the project;
Keep the up-to-date with any information required to go into the health and safety file;
Oversee and ensure compliance with Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).
Monitor and ensure all work is carried out in accordance with approved/agreed Risk Assessments and Method Statements and ensure that staff and sub-contractors are appropriately qualified/certified to carry out the work;
Undertake regular site inspection and feed forward to regular toolbox talks with contract staff and sub-contractors.
Manage the interface between the construction and the site operations to ensure minimum disruption to operations.
