What main contractors check before letting you on site
Before a subcontractor starts, a New Zealand main contractor checks your SSSP, your task analyses for higher-risk work, your site induction, and the certificates and registrations for the work. Many also run a prequalification check such as SiteWise or through Site Safe. Missing or generic paperwork is the most common reason a start is delayed.
The paperwork they want to see
- •A current SSSP written for this site, not a generic template
- •Task analyses for the higher-risk tasks you will carry out
- •Evidence your workers have completed the site induction
- •Registrations, licences and certificates of competence for the work (for example scaffolding over five metres)
- •Safety data sheets where you bring hazardous substances on site
Prequalification
Many main contractors use a prequalification system such as SiteWise, or expect Site Safe training, to screen subcontractors before they are engaged. That is separate from the SSSP: prequalification is about your business systems; the SSSP is about this specific job. You usually need both.
Why generic plans get sent back
A plan that could apply to any site tells the main contractor nothing about how you will control the hazards here. The fastest way through the gate is a plan that names this site, this crew and these tasks, with controls a supervisor can actually put in place.
Common questions
What is SiteWise?
SiteWise is a health and safety prequalification system used by many New Zealand main contractors to grade a contractor’s safety systems before engaging them. It is separate from your SSSP, which covers the specific site.
How long before I start should I have my SSSP ready?
Have it ready before you are due on site, ideally when you are engaged. Main contractors often want to review it in advance, and a plan handed over at the gate on day one is the most likely to hold up your start.
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