What do landlords and tenants need to know about Jobsite Safety Plan in Construction?

A Jobsite Safety Plan in Construction is a formal document prepared by the principal contractor that identifies all hazards associated with a construction project and specifies the control measures, procedures, and responsibilities required to manage workplace health and safety throughout the construction program. It is a mandatory regulatory requirement on all significant construction sites.

What Landlords Need to Know

• Landlords commissioning construction works on their properties are responsible for ensuring the contractor maintains a compliant safety plan
• During fit-out and construction works in occupied buildings, the safety plan must address the risks to existing tenants and building users
• Landlords may be held liable for workplace injuries if they fail to appoint a competent contractor with a documented safety plan
• Construction insurance and public liability coverage are typically conditioned on an approved safety plan being in place

What Tenants Need to Know

• Tenants in occupied buildings must understand the construction safety protocols affecting their areas during neighboring works
• Access restrictions, dust control, noise management, and evacuation procedures during construction must be communicated to affected tenants
• Tenants have the right to receive information about hazards that may affect their occupancy during construction works
• Tenants should document any safety concerns and communicate them in writing to both the landlord and contractor

Key Requirements for a Compliant Jobsite Safety Plan

• Hazard identification and risk assessment for all stages and activities of the construction program
• Control measures specified for all identified risks using the hierarchy of controls framework
• Emergency response and evacuation procedures for construction site incidents
• Site induction requirements and personal protective equipment standards for all site personnel

A Jobsite Safety Plan is a non-negotiable legal and ethical requirement in construction that protects workers, neighboring occupants, and the general public from construction-related hazards. Both landlords and tenants must actively engage with safety planning for construction works on or adjacent to their properties to fulfill their duty of care obligations and protect themselves from liability.