In many cases, yes. Construction site inspections are commonly required as part of managing health and safety responsibilities and monitoring site conditions.
Under the Health and Safety Executive Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the CDM Regulations 2015, employers, contractors and those in control of construction work have duties to help ensure work activities are properly planned, monitored and carried out safely.
Regular site inspections are widely used within the construction industry to help identify hazards, check control measures and monitor overall site safety standards.
Depending on the type of work being carried out, inspections may include:
- General site safety inspections
- Working at height inspections
- Scaffold inspections
- Plant and machinery checks
- Excavation inspections
- Fire safety checks
- Welfare facility inspections
- PPE and housekeeping inspections
Certain inspections may also be specifically required under other regulations. For example, scaffold inspections are required under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and must be carried out at prescribed intervals and following certain events such as adverse weather or alterations.
Site inspections can help businesses:
- Identify hazards and unsafe conditions
- Monitor compliance with site rules
- Record defects or corrective actions
- Review control measures
- Support ongoing health and safety management
Inspection findings are commonly recorded using site inspection forms or checklists to help maintain clear records throughout the project.