Prior to
engaging a contractor, evaluate the contractor according to the risks
associated with the services to be delivered. Consider factors like
construction activities, confined space entry, work at heights, electrical work, and use of hazardous
substances.
Before selection, ensure the contractor completes the Contractor Evaluation questionnaire in SINE Pro. This is included in the Finance New Supplier workflow and assesses their HSE (Health, Safety, & Environment) capabilities, insurance coverage, licensing, and Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS). Check with the HSE Manager if you are unsure if a company is an approved contractor.
NOTE: Link to Contract Service Provider Evaluation
For construction projects valued at $350,000 or more, a Principal Contractor must be appointed. They must prepare an HS Management Plan, manage SWMS, and ensure all subcontractors complete construction induction training.
If a Principal Contractor is appointed, review their HS Management Plan BEFORE work commences. Ensure it includes key elements: names of responsible personnel, consultation arrangements, incident management, site-specific rules, and SWMS management.
Ensure ALL contractors complete the DCA Contractor Health & Safety Induction via SINE before they start any work. Also, you must provide a site-specific induction to familiarize them with the site, hazards, and emergency procedures.
NOTE: Link to Contractor Induction
Before work begins, VERIFY that contractors have a relevant Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high-risk activities. Confirm the SWMS is site-specific and that workers understand its requirements.
NOTE: A SWMS is a documented risk assessment tool that breaks down high-risk work steps, identifies hazards, and outlines control measures. Refer to WorkSafe SWMS guidance.
Ensure contractors obtain the required Permit to Work (PTW) BEFORE commencing high-risk activities including confined space entry, work at heights, hot work, fire services impairment or excavation work. Only authorised permit issuers can approve PTW. Contact Engineering team for assistance.
Enforce the sign-in/sign-out process using the SINE Pro app or iPad. This helps track who is on-site, ensure inductions are current, and manage emergencies. You will receive an alert when a contractor signs in and must arrange to meet.
Regularly monitor contractors and their work practices. For major service contractor, you must formalise inspections using the Contractor Inspection Checklist in Myosh.
If a contractor fails to comply with HSE requirements, issue a non-conformance report. Document the issue in Myosh and follow up to ensure corrective actions are implemented.
Refer: myosh - Inspections.
Maintain open communication with contractors. Consult with them on safety matters, address any concerns they raise, and ensure they are aware of site rules and emergency procedures. Keep records of these consultations (e.g., diary notes, emails).
Contractors must report ALL incidents and injuries to you immediately. Investigate incidents to identify root causes and implement preventative measures. Document the incident in Myosh.
Refer: myosh - Incident Reporting.
Ensure contractors are aware of site-specific emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and alarm signals. They must know who the Chief Fire Warden is and how to contact them.
Refer: Emergency Procedures Quick Guide.
Approved Contractors: Always engage contractors pre-approved in the SINE Pro system.
SWMS: Confirm contractors have a site-specific SWMS for all high-risk work.
Permits: Ensure required PTW are in place before high-risk work commences.
Monitor: Conduct regular site inspections and address any non-conformances promptly.
Communicate and Consult: Maintain open communication on all safety matters.
Incident Reporting: Ensure contractors report all incidents and injuries immediately.
Sign-In/Out: Verify contractors check in and out using the SINE Pro app.