Build UK and CECA are aiming to reduce bureaucracy and cost in the construction pre- qualification (PQ) system by establishing a single assessment standard for stage 1 (business assurance). At present, the current PQ system is complex, bureaucratic and repetitive and costs the industry up to £1 billion a year.
Companies will be audited once a year, by a recognised assessment body, against the industry-agreed ‘Common Assessment Standard’, and they will need to update key information during the year as required. This would be accepted by Clients and Contractors providing assurance that their supply chains are competent, and they would not specify a particular assessment body.
The new Common Assessment Standard comprises a question set based on existing PQQs, including PAS 91, and desktop and site/premises-based assessment standards. This includes important exemptions where other third-party audited certifications, such as ISO standards, are held.
There are two levels of certification: desktop and site based. Companies can now apply to a recognised assessment body for the certification level that is most appropriate for their business based on a range of factors including trade, size and the requirements of their clients.
For companies that employ less than five employees and have a turnover below £500,000, the assessment standards will be applied in a proportionate way.
Recognised Assessment Bodies
The following assessment bodies have been recognised to certify companies against the Common Assessment Standard and have aligned existing or new products accordingly.
All recognised assessment bodies have demonstrated their capability to audit companies against the Common Assessment Standard.
How we can help
Whatever route you decide to take with the new Common Assessment Standards, whether through ISO standards or SSIP scheme accreditation, the Standerwick Partnership is able to assist, our consultants are formally qualified in all areas of Health & Safety, Environmental and Quality Management and will provide a practical and pragmatic approach for your business.
To get in touch please call 0800 0836458 or email us at info@standerwicksafety.co.uk
You can also visit our Services Page for more details https://www.standerwicksafety.co.uk/services-ssip-accreditation