Contractor Safety: Who is Responsible?

Ensuring a safe work environment when contractors perform work on-site requires clear coordination between the host employer and the contractor. Both parties share responsibility for safety compliance, communication, and risk management.

OSHA does not have a specific “Contractor Safety Standard,” nor a written program requirement for contractor safety. OSHA does however mandate that both the contract employer and host site have joint responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work environment. What this looks like will vary from site to site but establishing this relationship through a Contractor Safety program is extremely and the best practice. 

The contract company is responsible for ensuring the health and safety of their workers. However, the host company is responsible for the health and safety of all stakeholders on their site. It is often a concurrent (mutual) liability. 

The contractor must have an effective health and safety program. The host company needs to confirm this and ensure that it meets all of the host company’s safety requirements. Onsite training by the host company, including an overview of the site safety program and site-specific safety hazards, is essential to ensure the safety of contractors and all employees on site. 

During contract work, the host company must ensure that appropriate protection, including PPE, is available and utilized, and that safety procedures are followed.  If the contract company provides day-to-day supervision, the host company must still monitor to ensure a safe work environment, and compliance with the host company’s requirements. Also, it is best practice to establish a process for addressing any safety concerns noted by either the host or contract company.

It is a partnership and agreement to implement what is best to ensure a safe work environment that identifies hazards and keeps employees are protected. Intervention may be necessary to stop unsafe work practices and correct any issues noted. If a contract employee is exposed to a hazard and/or is injured, both the host company and contractor company may both be liable. 

Below are a few key responsibilities as well as best practices to consider

Key Responsibilities

Host Employer:

  • Prequalification: Assess contractor safety programs, training, and past performance before selection.
  • Hazard Communication: Inform contractors of known workplace hazards and site-specific safety procedures.
  • Coordination of Activities: Ensure contractors and employees understand overlapping work and potential risks.
  • Monitoring & Oversight: Verify contractor compliance with safety rules and regulations

Contract Employer:

  • Training & Competency: Ensure all workers are trained and competent for the assigned tasks.
  • Compliance: Follow OSHA standards, host-site rules, and all safety requirements.
  • Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Conduct JHAs for tasks and implement appropriate controls.
  • Incident Reporting: Immediately report injuries, near-misses, and unsafe conditions to the host employer.

Best Practices

  • Clear Contract Language: Include safety expectations, responsibilities, and performance metrics in written agreements.
  • Site Orientation: Require a comprehensive site safety orientation for all contractor personnel.
  • Use of PPE: Determine who is responsible for providing appropriate PPE, and that is worn and maintained.
  • Permit Systems: Follow permit-to-work systems for hazardous tasks (e.g., hot work, confined space).
  • Regular Safety Meetings: Conduct toolbox talks and daily briefings to reinforce safety messages.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Contractors must be aware of evacuation routes, alarms, and emergency contacts.
  • Documentation: Maintain records of training, inspections, and incident investigations.

Effective communication, shared accountability, and a culture of safety are essential for protecting all personnel and preventing accidents. An effective Contractor Safety Program is an important element to ensure safety for all stakeholders and that is what matters!

Photo @Ideogrm

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