If you’re a subcontractor in the UK construction industry, you’ve seen them: the acronyms. CHAS, SMAS, SafeContractor, Acclaim… They pop up in tender documents and pre-qualification questionnaires, often leaving you wondering which one is the “right” one to have.
The good news? You’re not alone. The even better news? We’re here to clear up the confusion.
First, What is an SSIP?
Most of these accreditations fall under the Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) umbrella. The SSIP is a forum that allows health and safety pre-qualification schemes to mutually recognise each other’s assessments.
In simple terms: if you pass one SSIP member scheme, your health and safety competence is recognised by all the others. This means you don’t have to get multiple health and safety accreditations.
So, Why Are There Different Schemes?
While they all assess the same core health and safety criteria, the differences lie in:
Brand Recognition: Some are more well-known in certain sectors or regions.
Cost and Process: Application fees and process details can vary.
Additional Services: Some offer extra resources, like template documents or online portals.
A Quick Guide to the Major Players:
CHAS (The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme): One of the most recognised and established schemes. Often seen as the “gold standard” by many principal contractors.
SafeContractor: A very popular scheme, known for its straightforward application process and strong reputation.
SMAS Worksafe: Another leading SSIP member, offering a simple online application and management system.
Constructionline: This is slightly different. While it includes SSIP health and safety compliance, it’s a broader pre-qualification database that also covers financial viability, quality, and environmental aspects. Many public sector contracts require Constructionline.
Which One is Right For You?
The answer depends on who you want to work for.
Ask Your Clients: The best way to decide is to speak to your existing or target clients. Which scheme do they prefer or require?
Check Tender Documents: Look at the PQQ documents for the jobs you want to win. Which accreditations are listed?
Consider Cost and Efficiency: Compare the application fees and support offered by each scheme.
The Bottom Line
For pure health and safety pre-qualification, achieving any major SSIP member scheme (like CHAS, SafeContractor, or SMAS) will open most of the same doors. The key is to get accredited to demonstrate your commitment to safe working practices.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Let TradeCert Solutions Guide You.
We help trades and businesses cut through the noise. We’ll advise on the best scheme for your specific goals and handle the entire application process for you, from documentation to submission.
Ready to get accredited and stop missing out on tenders? [Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation today!]
