CDM 2015 is a revision of the existing regulations designed to protect the health and safety of people when building, using and maintaining premises.
It comes into force in April 2015 and EEF is urging business owners not to fall foul of the regulations by assuming that 'construction' relates only to building new factories, extending existing premises, renovating a factory or renewing external signage.
Mike Denison, health and safety expert at EEF, explains that the new regulations define 'construction' in the broadest possible way, leaving some manufacturers potentially open to prosecution for non-compliance.
"When it comes to CDM 2015, 'construction' doesn't mean 'construction' in the sense that you or I would understand, but encompasses a far wider range of activities regularly undertaken by manufacturers," states Denison.
"Forewarned is forearmed, which is why we are reminding companies now so that they can ensure their full compliance ahead of CDM 2015 coming into force."
To help plant and factory managers understand the pitfalls, EEF has listed the following common practices in manufacturing that fall under the new CDM Regulations:
Moving machinery within the factory
Dismantling a machine for repair or refurbishment
Creating new working areas by installing (or removing) structures such as walls, additional levels or elevated walkways
Almost anything involving mechanical, electrical, gas, compressed air, hydraulic, telecommunications, computer services including installation, commissioning, maintenance, repair or removal
Dismantling existing machinery for decommissioning
Redesigning factory layout
Building, or dismantling, an extension
Installing new machinery.
Such projects, and many others, need to be managed in a formal manner, from the planning stages right through to completion.
Projects such as buying new machinery or moving machinery require a team covering the roles and duties specified by the new CDM regulations.
To help companies get to grips with this, EEF is running a series of breakfast briefings across the UK. To find out more, contact the EEF.