Just in the short 3 years that I have been running Bennett Business partnerships and doing Health and Safety independently, everything is changing! Between the lost of Grandfather rights and a call to have more stringent processes on due diligence and compliancy - how are you keeping up with the changes? Do you understand the PAS 91 withdrawal and what CAS is going to do to PQQ's?
Here let me explain.....
PAS 91 Withdrawal: A Shift Towards More Rigorous Standards in UK Construction
In a significant move for the UK construction industry, the British Standards Institution (BSI) officially withdrew PAS 91 in 2023. This change marks the end of a widely used standard, leaving many in the industry questioning what comes next. PAS 91, once a cornerstone for pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs) in the construction sector, is no longer being updated. The decision to withdraw it reflects the broader changes and advancements in the industry, particularly in terms of safety and regulatory demands.
Why PAS 91 No Longer Fits the Bill
PAS 91 was introduced as a standardised PQQ template, aiming to simplify the procurement process and ensure a consistent approach to supplier assessment. While it served its purpose for many years, the landscape of UK construction has evolved significantly, especially with the introduction of the Building Safety Act. As regulations become stricter and more focused on safety and quality, PAS 91 struggled to keep pace with the industry's growing demands.
The withdrawal of PAS 91 is not just a matter of updating a document; it’s a recognition that the industry's needs have outgrown its capabilities. With an increasing focus on safety, quality, and efficiency, construction projects require more comprehensive and detailed assessments than PAS 91 could provide. The need for a more robust framework became clear, leading to the development and adoption of the Common Assessment Standard.
The Rise of the Common Assessment Standard
Enter the Common Assessment Standard, a new benchmark in construction procurement. Developed by Build UK in collaboration with Constructionline, this standardised PQQ offers a more thorough and efficient approach to assessing suppliers. Unlike PAS 91, the Common Assessment Standard provides a unified set of questions that streamline the pre-qualification process for both construction buyers and suppliers.
One of the key benefits of the Common Assessment Standard is its ability to reduce duplication. Previously, suppliers often had to complete multiple PQQs for different buyers, leading to inefficiencies and wasted resources. By standardising the questions across the industry, the Common Assessment Standard simplifies this process, saving time and effort for everyone involved.
Promoting Transparency and Competition
Another important aspect of the Common Assessment Standard is its commitment to transparency. With a clear and unified set of requirements, all construction suppliers are now on the same page. This not only levels the playing field but also fosters a more competitive and informed working environment. Suppliers can better understand what is expected of them and prepare accordingly, leading to higher standards across the board.
Moreover, the Common Assessment Standard offers a more detailed and rigorous framework than PAS 91 ever did. The scope of the questions has expanded to cover a broader range of factors that impact safety, quality, and efficiency in construction projects. This ensures that only the most qualified and reliable suppliers are chosen, ultimately leading to better outcomes for building projects.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Construction Standards
The withdrawal of PAS 91 marks the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter for the UK construction industry. As we move towards a future where safety and quality are paramount, the Common Assessment Standard represents a significant step forward. By providing a more comprehensive and efficient framework for supplier assessment, it addresses the industry's evolving needs and sets a higher bar for construction procurement.
In conclusion, while PAS 91 served its purpose, its withdrawal reflects the broader shifts in the industry towards safer and more efficient practices. The Common Assessment Standard is now the go-to framework, offering a more detailed and transparent approach that benefits both buyers and suppliers. As the construction industry continues to evolve, adopting and adhering to these new standards will be key to ensuring success in an increasingly demanding environment. Still baffled and not sure how to proceed forward? Outsource your Health and Safety to Bennett Business Partnerships and let us take away the headache.
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