Safety Criteria to Look At When Pre-Qualifying an Industrial Contractor

22 August 2019
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog


In property development, the right industrial construction contractor should deliver quality output within the designated timelines and at a competitive price. The two parameters are usually the main discussion points during the selection stage of a construction contractor. However, choosing an industrial constructor should go beyond these two aspects, with particular attention being given to a contractor's safety performance. For this reason, safety screening is vital when pre-qualifying potential candidates for an industrial construction project. This article highlights the criteria you must include when screening an industrial construction company for safety issues.

Experience Modification Rate -- The Experience Modification Rate (EMR), also known as the mod factor, is one of the most robust indicators of an industrial contractor's safety record. It is a reflection of how much they have paid out in terms of worker's compensation when compared to other industrial contractors. According to industry data, the industry average EMR stands at 1.0. Therefore, if a potential candidate's rating is above 1.0, then it is an indication that the construction contractor has spent money on compensating injured workers. Such a rating leads to an increase in worker's compensation insurance premium, thereby often making the contractor more expensive. Hence, it is crucial to select a construction contractor whose EMR is 1.0 or lower. This is an indication that the service provider does not suffer losses resulting from injuries and fatalities.

WorkSafe Australia Data -- Information collected by WorkSafe Australia from industrial contractors is significant when pre-qualifying potential contractors for an industrial project. It sheds light on a contractor's safety history and includes records on worker's injuries. Besides, the parameter also shows illnesses related to the contractor's working conditions. However, do not merely skim through files for the past year or two because you will not get the full picture. Your evaluation should consider WorkSafe data of at least three to five years. Also, pay particular attention to Lost Time and Recordable Incidence Rates. Confirm whether the contractor's safety issues have a pattern or whether a single incidence resulted in a spike in injury rates. A thorough look at data from WorkSafe Australia gives you a clear understanding of which industrial contractor is the safest to engage.

Evaluate Current Safety Programs -- It is essential to note that the EMR and data from WorkSafe Australia indicate a contractor's past safety records. Therefore, don't ignore the potential candidate's current safety program. An up-to-date safety program demonstrates that the contractor is well aware of their current safety needs and has effective safety procedures. For instance, a contractor that has scheduled safety training programs provides a safer workplace than a contractor who does not.

Contact an industrial construction contractor today in order to learn more.


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