Guidance on temporary closure of construction sites
Risk management
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The following provides guidance on how to manage a construction site shutdown in order to reduce the risks and impact of any issues during a temporary closure of the works
Temporary closure - pre-planning considerations
- Carry out a risk assessment of the site
- Consider the legal and contractual implications of a temporary closure of the site
- Create a close down plan which specifically details critical areas on the site
- Establish a list of key contacts and detail responsibilities
Temporary closure - when demobilisation commences
- Document the progress made on site to date
- Ensure emergency services access plans and provisions remain in place
- Remove waste from the site or secure covered and lockable containers
- Remove or secure scaffolding to prevent access
- Inspect current temporary support works
- Establish additional temporary support works for part built structures
- Back fill or cover over excavations and ensure dewatering systems are working
- Lock anti-climb hatches on tower cranes and note the expiry date of the certificate of thorough examination
- Retain essential electrical power supplies but drain down water systems and shut off water and gas supplies
- Remove materials and plant from site back to a secure depot or secure within lockable containers and buildings
- Check the site fencing and make any necessary repairs
- Establish site security during the closure period (whether staffed or remote monitoring)
- Record contact information for key personnel and establish responsibility for site access
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