New health and safety guidance has been published for schools on Managing Contractors working on site.
Contractor Management – Info Sheet 84 has been developed to sit alongside Somerset Council’s existing policy and guidance on managing contractors, but provides a shorter, more practical document specifically aimed at schools.
Why this guidance has been produced
Schools regularly have contractors on site carrying out maintenance, repair or construction work, ranging from small routine jobs to more complex projects. While detailed corporate guidance already exists, feedback from schools has highlighted the need for a clear, school‑focused summary that is easier to use day to day.
This info sheet:
• Clarifies the school’s role and responsibilities when contractors are working on site
• Explains what counts as ‘construction work’ in a school setting
• Provides clear prompts for what premises managers should check before, during and after works
• Supports schools to challenge unsafe practices and stop work where necessary
Who should use this guidance
This guidance is particularly relevant for:
• Premises Managers and Caretakers
• School Business Managers
• Headteachers and Senior leaders
• Staff responsible for arranging or overseeing contractor works
It is suitable for maintained schools of all sizes and complements, rather than replaces, existing Somerset Council Contractor Management Policy and CDM Guidance.
What schools should do next
Schools are encouraged to:
• Read Info Sheet 84 and familiarise themselves with the key checks and expectations
• Use it as a practical reference when planning or overseeing contractor works
• Ensure local arrangements for sign‑in, asbestos awareness, supervision and fire safety are in place
• Share the guidance with staff who may be involved in managing contractors
Where works are complex or higher risk, schools should continue to follow corporate processes and seek advice from the Health and Safety Service or Property teams as required.
Premises Manager training
Key elements from this guidance are covered in the Premises Manager training, and this can be booked on the SSE website.
Accessing the guidance
The guidance is published as Info Sheet 84 and is available within the Schools Health and Safety Guidance on the Somerset Council website.
