Construction Site Safety Coordinator
Are you an entrepreneur in the construction industry in the Netherlands? You probably know that since the beginning of 2024, the Dutch government has introduced a new law to ensure greater safety in the implementation of construction projects, including the employment of a safety coordinator.
Quality Assurance Act in Construction (Wkb)
The new Wkb Act aims to improve the quality standards of the construction sector. It strives to enhance its competitiveness (by better protecting the client’s interests) and aspects related to safety and environmental protection.
The most significant change concerns the requirement to employ a safety coordinator for construction and demolition works. The modification aims to raise the standard of project implementation while simultaneously protecting people and the environment.
When do I need to appoint a safety coordinator?
First, you need to assess whether there are any safety or health hazards in the immediate vicinity during construction or demolition work. For this purpose, you must complete a so-called risk matrix, which determines whether the employment of a safety coordinator is necessary for a specific project.
Download the Risk Matrix HERE.
What does a safety coordinator do?
A safety coordinator acts on behalf of the main contractor or client and organizes safety-related work during project execution. Usually, this is one of the main contractor’s employees with appropriate qualifications.
The primary responsibilities of the safety coordinator include:
- Implementation and control of safety rules: Ensures that the introduced rules are followed and evaluates their effectiveness.
- Coordination of works: Ensures the proper adjustment of different stages to safety procedures.
- Employee education: Informs employees about hazards and safety measures.
- Adjustment of safety measures: Introduces changes to safety measures if necessary.
Who supervises safety on the construction site?
Several individuals oversee safety in the construction industry:
- Quality inspector: Checks whether the constructed object complies with statutory technical regulations for new construction.
- V&G coordinator: Controls safety on the construction site.
- Immediate vicinity safety coordinator: Controls safety in the immediate surroundings of the construction site.
A safety coordinator can also serve as a V&G coordinator but cannot be a quality inspector simultaneously.
Do you run a construction company in the Netherlands? Read about BTV verlegd HERE.
What if the inspection reveals irregularities?
If the coordinator identifies non-compliance with regulations, the responsibility for any mistakes lies with the client and the main contractor. They are obliged to implement all indicated remarks and corrections. The safety inspector checks whether all his recommendations have been applied and issues a certificate of readiness for use.
The introduction of the provision requiring the employment of a safety coordinator aims to strengthen the position of Dutch clients by raising work standards. This means you can expect further dynamic development of the construction sector in the Netherlands.
sources: https://ondernemersplein.kvk.nl/
