Work with third parties safely
You know better than anyone that it is quite difficult to keep tabs on a company's security. And matters are duly complicated when a third party is thrown in the equation! An external contractor does in effect represent a risk for your company as he can also be confronted with dangers related to your operations. The legislation has thus regulated this aspect by imposing legal obligations to businesses and project managers. Rest assured: Securex will help you implement these rules properly.
More information to increase safety
Safety always relies on information, a good collaboration and faultless coordination. You are thus obliged to provide the contractor with a sufficient amount of information regarding the potentials risks related to your activities and the prevention measures that are applicable on your premises. You must also ensure that the contractor’s employees are duly informed about this safety measures. The contractor has to also inform you of any risks related to his activities.
A proper contract
As the project manager, you are obliged to conclude a contract with every contractor. The contract clearly sets out the rights and obligations of both parties. The contract must contain the following two clauses:
- The external company’s commitment to respect obligations with regard to employee welfare during the execution of their work, which are enforced by the project manager's company and which apply to the contractor;
- The right of the project manager to take the necessary measures himself if the external contractor has been shown to be negligent.
Do not hesitate to add more concrete provisions, such as a list of information to be provided, obligations enforced within your company, etc.
No time to write out a contract? Are you afraid that you might forget an important detail? Securex will take care of everything: We will draft the entire contract for you and assure a successful collaboration from the beginning of the works.
VCA system (VCA = Security Checklist for Contractors)
The choice of your contractor will determine whether everything goes smoothly as planned. You should thus choose a contractor who has a VCA certificate (VCA = SCC or Security Checklist for Contractors) or a BeSaCC (Belgian Safety Criteria for Contractors) certificate. These certificates will guarantee that the contractor respects all safety criteria.
Securex also provides guidance to companies when implementing the VCA system within their organization. We prefer a phased approach:
- We carry out a preliminary audit, which reveals all issues;
- We draft the required VCA documents;
- We train employees and managers regarding the VCA norm.
Are you confused about the legal provisions? Do you require assistance? Securex Health & Safety Solutions is by your side to help you. Or how to ensure a perfect collaboration with your contractor, while carefully respecting your legal obligations.
