What you will learn:

Learners will gain a clear understanding of the Construction Health and Safety Agent’s (CHSA) role across all six stages of a construction project, as outlined by the SACPCMP. They will explore how design decisions influence health and safety risks and how these risks should be managed throughout the project lifecycle. The course provides insight into the legal responsibilities of clients, consultants, contractors, and designers, and explains how these duties are applied in practice. Learners will also become familiar with the documentation and compliance requirements at each stage, in alignment with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and the Construction Regulations (CR) of South Africa. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped to contribute to a collaborative, safety-driven approach within multidisciplinary project teams.

Modules:

Module 1- Introduction and project overview. This course follows the six SACPCMP-defined project stages, with a focus on the vital role of the health and safety agent.

We’ll explore key responsibilities across all stages, with particular attention on Stages 1 to 3 and their core deliverables. Stage 4 will address common misconceptions—such as when a construction work permit is required, the role of the four involved parties, and critical legal elements like Section 37.2, letters of good standing, and 16.1 appointments.

Stages 5 and 6 cover construction management and project close-out, outlining the duties of key role players. By the end of the course, you’ll understand how to manage health and safety throughout the entire construction lifecycle.

Module 2 – Designer Duties.Covers the statutory responsibilities of designers under South African Construction Regulations, focusing on hazard identification, risk mitigation, and ensuring compliance from concept to completion.

Module 3 – Project stages overview. This course explores the structure and importance of project stages in construction, highlighting how each phase—from planning to handover—presents unique health and safety challenges. Understanding these transitions is crucial for managing risks, ensuring accountability, and protecting lives. A stage-based approach enables proactive safety management, better coordination, and early hazard control. We’ll also introduce the key role of the Construction Health and Safety Agent, who oversees safety practices across all stages.

Module 4 – Stage 1: Project Initiation and Briefing. Module 4 examines how the CHSA supports the client and professional team in establishing the health and safety framework. You’ll learn how to develop a risk profile, compile an H&S brief, and ensure that all consultants meet competency standards.

Module 5 – Stage 2: Concept and Feasibility. In this phase, the focus will be on conducting early design reviews, creating baseline risk assessments, and aligning the health and safety policy with preliminary project planning. You’ll also explore budgeting considerations and how to engage qualified specialists with appropriate H&S plans.

Module 6 – Stage 3: Design Development. Here, the students will delve into the CHSA’s involvement in design risk management. The course outlines how to guide consultants in complying with legal health and safety (H&S) obligations, update the baseline risk assessment, and ensure that the final design accommodates safe construction, maintenance, and eventual use.

Module 7 – Stage 4: Tender Documentation and Procurement. This stage receives special attention, as it outlines the requirements for obtaining a construction work permit, the necessary documentation, and the specific roles of the four key parties: the client, principal contractor, professional team, and the CHSA. We’ll also clarify mandatory appointments like Section 37.2 agreements, letters of good standing, and the critical 16.1 designation of responsible persons.

Module 8 – Stage 5: Construction Documentation and Management. This section will cover the on-site responsibilities of the CHSA during active construction. This includes approving safety plans, conducting audits, managing incidents, updating specifications as needed, and leading site mobilisation and compliance monitoring.

Module 9 – Stage 6: Project Close-Out. Finally, this module addresses the health and safety tasks during handover, such as reviewing and approving the H&S file, cancelling legal appointments, and preparing close-out documentation. We also discuss ongoing structural responsibilities, maintenance inspections, and legal compliance post-construction.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the CHSA’s responsibilities across all six project stages
• Identify and mitigate design-related risks early in the project lifecycle
• Align project documentation with legal and regulatory compliance
• Implement health and safety protocols in tendering, design, and construction
• Facilitate proper project close-out procedures, including safety file handovers

Certification:

Certificate of Completion issued by Cairnmead Faculty of Safety Registered at The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors.

Requirements:

• Reliable internet connection
• Basic knowledge of the construction process is recommended

Assessment:

A multiple-choice quiz must be completed at the end of the course to receive a certificate of completion.