Consultant Guidance Note: Working Safely at Client Premises

Purpose

This guidance note outlines the minimum health, safety, security, and wellbeing expectations for consultants undertaking consultancy, audit, inspection, or assessment activities at client premises.

Before Attending Site

• Ensure you are fit to work and competent to undertake the planned activities.
• Familiarise yourself with any pre-visit information provided by the client, including site rules, security requirements, and known hazards.
• Confirm the scope of work and any access requirements before arrival.
• Ensure appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is available where required.

On Arrival

• Comply with all client site rules, procedures, and instructions.
• Sign in and out in accordance with site requirements.
• Attend any site induction provided and ensure you understand emergency arrangements, including evacuation procedures and assembly points.
• Follow designated pedestrian routes and observe site signage.

During the Visit

• Remain with your assigned chaperone or guide at all times. 
• Ask permission before taking photographic evidence or recording details.
• Take reasonable care of your own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by your actions.
• Remain alert to hazards such as slips, trips, falls, moving vehicles, work at height activities, machinery, hazardous substances, noise, and adverse environmental conditions.
• Wear any required PPE and use equipment only if authorised to do so.
• Do not interfere with plant, equipment, processes, or safety systems unless specifically authorised and competent to do so.
• Avoid entering restricted or high-risk areas unless accompanied and authorised by the client.
• Immediately report any unsafe conditions, incidents, near misses, or concerns to the client representative and your line manager where appropriate.

Personal Security and Wellbeing

• Be aware of your surroundings and follow any site security arrangements.
• Follow lone working procedures where applicable and maintain communication with your manager or designated contact.
• If you feel unsafe or encounter circumstances that present an unacceptable level of risk, stop work and seek guidance before proceeding.

Driving and Travel

• Plan journeys appropriately and comply with road traffic laws at all times.
• Do not drive while distracted, fatigued, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that may impair performance.
• Where possible, use environmentally responsible methods of travel.

Environmental and Professional Conduct

• Respect client property, confidentiality, and information security requirements.
• Minimise environmental impact by following site environmental controls and good housekeeping practices.
• Maintain professional behaviour and represent the company positively at all times.

Stop Work Authority

Consultants have the authority and responsibility to stop work and withdraw from an activity or area where they believe there is a serious and immediate risk to health, safety, security, or wellbeing. Any such concerns must be reported to the client representative and the company as soon as practicable.

Note: This guidance is generic and must be applied alongside any client-specific risk assessments, method statements, site rules, and company policies.