Are you looking to get your business accredited but don’t know how to? I will show you how to apply for CHAS Accreditation and let you in on the quickest and most efficient way to get it done – with the help of the experts at TrainInHealthandSafety.com.
But first, let me explain what CHAS is all about.
The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme is a respected UK scheme that proves your commitment to health and safety in construction. Getting CHAS certified shows clients you prioritize safety, environmental, and financial risk management.
This annual assessment covers your business operations, giving clients the confidence to work with you. And get this – CHAS has over 75,000 members and 1,000+ public and private sector bodies. That’s a huge network of opportunities waiting for you, especially with clients/businesses who prefer to work with contractors who value safety and compliance.
In fact, many construction companies require CHAS accreditation as proof of high safety standards.
What you need to do to get accredited
Before thinking about how to apply for CHAS accreditation, you must have a strong health and safety policy in place. Without it, you’re not ready to start the process.
Make sure your policy is documented, signed, and dated by the right person, as CHAS assessors will need to review it.
For businesses with employees, you absolutely need to have solid health and safety practices. CHAS assessors will examine your policies, training, and how you deal with risks.
If you’re ready to know how to apply for CHAS accreditation for your business, here’s how to get you started:
Step 1: Register and fill out the online application
On the CHAS website, you’ll create an account on My CHAS. This is your personal contractors’ portal where you can manage all things CHAS.
Once you’re registered, you’ll gain access to the online application portal. Follow the prompts and fill out the application form, make sure to provide accurate and detailed information about your company’s safety practices.
Step 2: Fill out business information
Now that you’re registered, the next step is to share details about your business operations. I would advise that you keep everything accurate and organized for a smooth experience. You’ll need to give details such as:
- Your company’s name and where it’s based.
- Primary contact information
- Corporate email and phone number
- Employee count
- Company structure and health and safety practices
- Relevant documentation on health and safety policies
Step 3: Gather required documentation
Now that you know the CHAS criteria, gather all the necessary documentation needed for your application. These are some that would be asked of you:
- Health and safety policy statement
- Employee training records
- Equipment maintenance and inspection records
- Risk assessments and method statements
- Insurance certificates
- Relevant licenses and certifications
Step 4: Choose the appropriate accreditation package
CHAS provides 3 packages/levels for you to pick from: CHAS Standard, CHAS Advanced, and CHAS Elite.
You just have to select the one that suits your company. Keep in mind, that the cost of the membership package will depend on the number of employees you have.
When reviewing the packages, I advise you to think about your business’s goals and the level of accreditation you’re in so you know the right accreditation your company deserves.
Step 5: Complete the health and safety assessments
Now that you’ve chosen the right package, it’s time to complete health and safety assessments. These assessments allow you to show how your company keeps everyone safe and manages risks.
You’ll need to explain key roles, and safety procedures, and ensure your policies align with UK regulations.
At this state, CHAS says “you’ll need to upload documents and policies demonstrating your compliance with different supply chain standards.”
It goes without saying that you are to be thorough in your responses to show your dedication to a safe work environment.
Step 6: Submit your application for review
After completing the assessments, it’s time to submit your application through the CHAS online portal.
A CHAS assessor will review your application and may ask for more documents to support your application.
I would advise that you provide detailed documents showing how your company identifies, assesses, and controls risks.
Being precise in your documentation shows you know your stuff when it comes to handling potential dangers in your operations. This review process, I think, is an opportunity to fine-tune your safety practices.
Step 7: Await the assessor's decision
Once you’ve sent off your application, CHAS assessors will examine your documents and evaluate your company’s safety practices against their accreditation standards.
Typically, you can expect a response within 48 hours of submitting your application.
The assessment might include site visits or requests for additional documents to check compliance. After carefully reviewing everything, the assessor will decide on your CHAS accreditation. If successful, your business will be CHAS accredited!
Need help with your CHAS application? THS can handle It for you!
A smooth CHAS accreditation requires your company to show clear proof of health and safety compliance.
However, many contractors struggle with this step, and a staggering 80% of applications get rejected initially due to missing evidence of training.
The good thing is that we can help!
With a team of experienced, NEBOSH-qualified Safety Practitioners, we do all the work for you, from the registration to the application and documentation.
We do everything for you, address any gap, and review your safety policies. You just have to provide us with your details.
Here’s how we’ll assist you:
- Complete your CHAS application form
- Gather all necessary evidence for your application
- Help you create and implement essential H&S systems
- Meet with you to discuss your unique situation
- Fill any gaps if you lack a competent H&S advisor
Our dedicated consultants, skilled in CHAS and Safecontractor will handle your SSIP application for you, while you focus on running your business.
WE CAN HELP YOU GET CHAS ACCREDITED!
