Understanding SSIP: A Gateway to Safety Excellence

What does SSIP stand for?

SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement and is a standard widely recognised primarily across the construction industry but is also applicable to other sectors where health and safety are critical such as manufacturing, engineering and maintenance. It’s fully approved by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). 

As of February 2024, SSIP reported an impressive 83,797 valid certificates registered, demonstrating the UK's strong commitment to health and safety competence.

How does SSIP work?

SSIP is built around a central framework known as the SSIP Core Criteria, which NQA meticulously audits. To achieve SSIP certification, contractors must meet these criteria, showcasing their compliance with Health & Safety legislation.

The core SSIP framework covers essential areas such as:

• Procedures for appointing competent sub-contractors: Ensuring that robust processes are in place to vet and manage sub-contractors effectively.

• Employee wellbeing: Providing adequate changing and eating facilities to support the health and safety of all employees.

• Monitoring and auditing: Implementing efficient processes to continuously monitor and audit safety practices, ensuring ongoing compliance.

• Training arrangements: Guaranteeing that employees receive proper training to perform their duties safely and effectively.

One of the standout features of SSIP is its ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, which simplifies the process of gaining access to a broader range of work opportunities. This approach eliminates the need for multiple, similar risk assessments, saving time and effort for contractors.

The Benefits of SSIP

Attaining SSIP certification offers numerous benefits, including:

• Legal compliance: Ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations, which is vital for any organisation.

• Cost and time savings: Reducing the need for duplicate assessments, thereby saving money and time.

• Increased work opportunities: Enhancing the chances of securing work through the tendering process.

• Boosted reputation: Boosting the status and credibility of your organisation by holding a recognised certification.

As Cathy explains: 

"SSIP affords everyone who attains the accreditation a level playing field. The ‘Deem to Satisfy’ mechanism allows mutual recognition of certificates among registered members, enabling significant time savings during the application process for other accreditations."

How Can NQA Help?

If your organisation is certified witISO 45001 through NQA, we can seamlessly audit you against SSIP standards at the same time. This integrated approach simplifies the process, making it easier for you to maintain compliance and achieve certification.

SSIP not only reduces duplication and fosters mutual understanding and recognition within many industries concerning Health and Safety but also ensures that those who attain SSIP accreditation have reached a standard easily recognised by many. This, in Cathy’s view, "is good for everyone".

Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in achieving SSIP certification and elevating your commitment to safety excellence.

Author:
Cathy Donnelly
Client Executive and Mental Health First Aider 

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