Site Management · Mandatory · Pre-Construction
Site Rules
Site Rules set out the mandatory health, safety, and behavioural requirements that all persons must follow when on the construction site. They cover PPE requirements, prohibited activities, speed limits, smoking areas, drug and alcohol policy, and disciplinary procedures. Site rules must be communicated during induction and displayed prominently throughout the site.
Last reviewed: 29 March 2026 — This guide reflects UK law as of this date. CDM 2015 / MHSWR remains current with no amendments enacted as of 29 March 2026. Next scheduled review: 29 March 2027.
1. Site Rules — The Foundation of Site Behavioural Standards
Site rules establish minimum standards of conduct and safety practice for everyone on a construction site — applying to every person, every day, regardless of employer, role, or experience. CDM 2015 requires the PC to prepare and enforce site rules throughout the construction phase. Effectiveness depends on communication and enforcement. Rules given at induction and never referenced again become background noise. Rules displayed prominently, referenced in toolbox talks, and enforced consistently become site culture.
Site rules must be communicated in a language workers understand
CDM 2015 Reg 13 requires workers are provided with information. On multilingual sites, rules must be available in relevant languages or through a competent interpreter. Use visual rules (pictograms), multilingual briefings, and bilingual site managers.
2. Core Site Rules — What Should Be Covered
| Area | Content |
|---|---|
| PPE requirements | Mandatory PPE for site (hard hat, hi-vis, safety boots, gloves). Task-specific PPE. Where PPE must be worn. |
| Access & egress | Authorised entry/exit points. One-way pedestrian routes. Visitors must report to site office. No access without authorisation. |
| Drug & alcohol policy | Zero tolerance. Prescription medication must be declared. Testing may be carried out. Positive test = removal. |
| Smoking policy | No smoking inside structures or welfare. Designated area only. Correct disposal. |
| Traffic | Site traffic routes. Speed limit (5mph typical). Pedestrian/plant segregation. No unauthorised parking. |
| Housekeeping | Each contractor responsible for own area. Daily clean-up. No combustible waste accumulation. Fire exits clear. |
| Incident reporting | All incidents and near misses reported immediately. Process for reporting. Named first aiders. |
| Emergency procedure | What to do on hearing fire alarm. Muster point location. How to raise alarm. |
| Permits to work | Tasks requiring permit. How permits obtained and closed. |
| Rule breaches | Consequences: verbal warning, removal from site. |
3. Common Mistakes
Generic rules not tailored to the project
Rules photocopied from a previous project may contain the wrong site name, wrong emergency contacts, and wrong muster point. Site rules must be project-specific.
No consequence stated for rule breaches
Rules without consequences are requests. The document must clearly state the consequences: verbal warning, removal from site, potential RIDDOR implications.
Rules displayed only at the entrance but not referenced again
Rules must be reinforced through induction, toolbox talks, visible management enforcement, and welfare area posters.
No drug and alcohol policy or aspirational without enforcement
The policy must describe testing (post-incident, reasonable suspicion, pre-employment), threshold levels, and the process for a positive result.
Not providing rules in languages spoken by the workforce
CDM requires information to reach and be understood by workers. Translation, visual displays, and multilingual briefings are needed.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Are site rules legally required or just best practice?▾
Required under CDM 2015 Reg 13(4). They form part of the CPP. They are not optional. CDM does not prescribe the content — the PC determines it based on project hazards. In enforcement, site rules (or their absence) are the first documents HSE requests.
Can a subcontractor impose additional rules?▾
Yes — additional rules on their own workers beyond the PC's rules, provided they are not inconsistent. A subcontractor cannot override or reduce the PC's requirements. Hierarchy: PC rules apply to everyone; subcontractor rules apply additionally to their workforce.
How often should rules be reviewed?▾
When scope changes significantly; after a significant incident or near miss; periodically (at least quarterly on larger projects); when the workforce profile changes. Updated rules must be communicated to all workers.
What are the consequences for breaking rules?▾
Proportionate and consistent. Minor: verbal warning. Repeated minor: written warning. Serious (no fall protection, bypassing PTW): immediate removal and investigation. Very serious (intoxicated, deliberate unsafe act): removal, potential RIDDOR, police if appropriate. Consistency is critical.
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Get started freeThis guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, regulations change and individual project circumstances vary. Construction Suite is a trading name of Xzist Digital Ltd, registered in England and Wales.