Designers and CDM-Cs Frequently Asked Questions
CHAS has moved to annual assessments
With effect from
1st October 2012
CHAS, like the majority of other health and safety pre-qualification schemes, has moved to an annual assessment cycle.
View details of how this will affect you>>
Q: What is CHAS' definition of a designer?
A: The CHAS National Management Board decided that prequalification as a designer applies to individuals or
practices involved in architecture, civil, structural,
building services engineering or building surveillance, and mechanical and electrical engineering.
Q: What is CHAS' definition of a CDM-C?
A: A Construction and Design Management Co-ordinator registered with the APS or equivalent organisation.
Q: How long is a compliant assessment valid?
A: Two years. Please note, if an assessor finds your application compliant you automatically receive a certificate of
accreditation which also lasts two years.
Q: As a designer will I be assessed as a contractor or consultant (supplier) as well as a designer?
A: No. The assessment includes a review of the essential elements of your safety management system.
Q: Do you accept designer pre-qualification through any other schemes in the same way as you do for contractors
or consultants (suppliers)?
A: No. Pre-qualification for designers is a specialist area, we do not recognise any other third-party schemes but this
may change.
Q: I design and build. What are the implications?
A: You will need to pre-qualify as both a designer and supplier. This requirement will be subjected to a review
after we have received information regarding your work projects.
Q: How long does an assessment take?
A: Once your application has been received with all supporting documentation and evidence, the assessors are contracted
to complete the initial assessment within 15 working days.
Q: What does an assessment cost?
A: If you are applying as a designer or CDM-C, please refer to the fee structure on the Appendix 2 application form.
If applying as a group contact the CHAS administration team to request a copy of the application.
Q: Who undertakes the designer assessments?
A: The assessor completing a designer pre-qualification assessment will have knowledge and experience in both design and
construction.
Q: Will the assessor give me health and safety or design advice?
A: Assessors cannot act as an adviser as this would be a conflict of interest. They will inform you of a failure to achieve
the required compliance standard and in some circumstances they may discuss issues with you by telephone.
They will give written guidance about any concerns but this should not be mistaken as advice.