It is imperative for employers to take steps to manage these risks effectively. 

The specific health and safety risks associated with contractors will vary depending on the nature of the work they are undertaking. However, some common risks include: 

• Unfamiliarity with the workplace: Contractors may not be familiar with the layout or hazards of the workplace. This can increase their risk of accidents. 
• Lack of training: Contractors may not have received the same level of training as employees in the workplace. This can increase their risk of accidents and injuries. 
• Use of hazardous equipment: Contractors may be using hazardous equipment that they are not familiar with. This can increase their risk of accidents and injuries. 

• Communication difficulties: Communication difficulties between contractors and employees can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. 

Control measures 

There are several control measures which employers can take to reduce the health and safety risks associated with contractors. These control measures include: 

• Employers should pre-qualify contractors to ensure that they have the necessary skills, experience, and resources to safely undertake the work. 
• Contractors should be given a thorough induction to the workplace, including training on the hazards of the workplace and the safe work procedures that must be followed. 

• Contractors should be adequately supervised by a competent person. 
• Ensure that there is good communication between contractors and employees. This can be done by holding regular meetings and providing contractors with access to the same information as employees. 
• monitor the work of contractors to ensure that they are following safe work practices. 
• Provide contractors with clear instructions and expectations. 
• Make sure that contractors have access to the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). 

• Always keep the workplace clean and tidy. 
• Report any accidents or near misses immediately. 
• Have a written contract in place. The contract should clearly outline the scope of work, the health and safety requirements, and the responsibilities of both parties. 
• Hold regular meetings with contractors. These meetings can be used to discuss progress, identify any potential problems, and ensure that everyone is on the same page. 
• Provide contractors with access to your health and safety policy and procedures. 

• Encourage contractors to report any accidents or near misses immediately. 
• Review the performance of contractors regularly. This will help to ensure that they are meeting your health and safety standards. 

By following the tips above, employers can help to reduce the health and safety risks associated with contractors in the workplace. It is important to remember that everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and healthy workplace, including contractors. Employers and employees should work together to ensure that everyone is safe. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

• An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
• eLearning on a wide range of EHS topics 
• Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
• Risk assessment templates covering hazards regarding contractors 
• Management system to document control the policy on contractor management 

• Method Statement module for the creation of work activity working instructions 
• Legal register that provides legislation guidance on contractor management 
• Incident investigation module that tracks incidents involving contractors both with an app and via desktop 
• Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding contractor activities or equipment to the organisation 
• Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software