Who Needs To Be SSIP Registered?
- carleneslade
- Aug 11
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
If you work in construction, facilities management, or similar industries, you've probably heard about SSIP. But who actually needs it, and why does it matter?
Let's break it down.
What is SSIP?
SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement. It’s not one scheme. It’s a group of health and safety accreditation bodies that all follow a shared standard, known as the SSIP Core Criteria.
CHAS, SMAS, SafeContractor, and others are all members of this group, and if you're assessed by one of them, that accreditation is recognised across all other SSIP schemes. So you don’t have to keep repeating assessments just to bid for different jobs.
Think of it as a quality mark. It shows you take health and safety seriously and have the systems to prove it.
Who needs SSIP registration?
If you work in or around the construction industry, SSIP is often not optional. Here’s who it applies to:
1. Contractors and subcontractors
Most main contractors and principal contractors now expect their supply chain to hold an SSIP accreditation. This includes:
Electricians
Plumbers
Roofers
Civil engineers
Landscaping companies
Plant hire firms
Even sole traders and micro businesses are being asked to prove they have systems in place. If you’re providing labour or services on site, SSIP is becoming the standard.
2. Businesses working for public sector clients
Local authorities, housing associations, NHS trusts, and schools often require SSIP as part of their tender process.
Even if you’re not directly working in construction, if you maintain buildings or facilities, you’re likely to be asked for it.
3. Private sector suppliers
Large commercial clients increasingly want reassurance that their contractors are working safely. SSIP gives them that confidence. It’s a quick way for them to pre-qualify your business before you even step on site.
4. Health and safety conscious SMEs
Even if your clients aren’t asking for SSIP yet, getting accredited shows you take safety seriously. It can help you stand out in a crowded market and build trust with potential clients.
Why is the SSIP accreditation important?
The real benefits are bigger than just ticking the procurement boxes:
Faster tendering
No need to complete separate health and safety questionnaires for each bid. One registration works across multiple clients.
Higher win rates
You're competing in a smaller pool. Many contractors can't meet SSIP standards.
Better subcontractor relationships
Main contractors prefer working with SSIP-registered suppliers.
Improved systems
The registration process often highlights gaps in your procedures before they become problems.
Insurance benefits
Some insurers offer discounts to SSIP-registered companies.
Increase in reputation
Clients, insurers, and partners see SSIP as a sign of a well-managed business. It gives confidence that you’re working professionally and reducing risk.
Which scheme should you choose?
There are multiple SSIP member schemes, but don't get bogged down in the differences. Most major buyers accept any SSIP member scheme. Pick one that fits your budget and sector focus.
How to get an SSIP accreditation
The process is straightforward but thorough. You'll need:
Health and safety policy
A written document that's actually relevant to your work, not a generic template.
Risk assessments
For your main activities that are updated regularly.
Training records
Evidence that your team knows what they're doing.
Insurance certificate
Public and employers' liability, at the right levels.
Accident records
Even if you haven't had any accidents, you need a system to record them.
Management procedures
How do you plan work, manage subcontractors, and handle emergencies?
It’s straightforward if your systems are in place. But it can feel overwhelming if they’re not. The assessment typically takes 2-4 weeks, and most schemes are valid for 12 months.
Common mistakes to avoid
Leaving it too late
Don't wait until you need it for a specific tender. The process takes time.
Choosing the wrong scheme
Ask your target clients which schemes they prefer before committing.
Generic documentation
Assessors can spot copy-and-paste policies. Make sure everything reflects your actual work.
Letting it lapse
Renewal is usually simpler than initial registration, but you need to stay on top of deadlines. We offer an automatic renewal reminder service to our clients, so you don't forget.
Is it worth the investment?
SSIP registration typically costs £300-£800 annually, depending on your company size and chosen scheme. For most contractors, this pays for itself with a single contract win.
But here's what really matters:
SSIP forces you to have proper health and safety systems in place. These systems protect your people, reduce your risks, and often save money through better planning and fewer incidents.
Getting started
Ready to move forward with SSIP registration? Here's your next step:
Check which schemes your target clients prefer
A quick call to their procurement teams will tell you.
Review your current health and safety documentation
See what you have and what needs improving. We can support this process by completing a gap analysis of your business.
Plan the timeline
Allow 6-8 weeks from start to finish for your first registration.
If your documentation needs work or you want to make sure you pass the first time, that's where specialist help makes sense. Getting it right from the start saves time and gets you bidding sooner.
SSIP registration opens doors. But more importantly, it helps you build a business that keeps people safe and wins more work.
That's worth the investment.
How we can help
We help contractors and SMEs prepare for SSIP accreditation in a way that’s:
Clear and simple
Built around your business
Focused on passing the assessment the first time
That might mean writing your health and safety policy, creating usable RAMS templates, or supporting your team with training records and documentation.
Final thoughts
If you work in construction or related sectors and want to win more work, SSIP is a smart move. It’s widely accepted, easy to renew, and helps you prove you’re doing things properly.
If you're unsure where to start or want help getting ready for accreditation, get in touch. We’ll guide you through it simply with no stress.
FAQs
1. What does SSIP stand for?
SSIP stands for Safety Schemes in Procurement. It’s a group of health and safety accreditation bodies that work to the same recognised standard, the SSIP Core Criteria. Accreditation from one SSIP member is accepted by all other members.
2. Do I need SSIP registration?
If you work in construction, facilities management, or maintain buildings, there’s a good chance you will. Many main contractors, public sector organisations, and large commercial clients require it as part of their procurement process. Even sole traders are increasingly asked for an SSIP before starting site work.
3. Which trades and businesses commonly need SSIP?
Typical examples include builders, electricians, plumbers, roofers, civil engineers, landscaping companies, plant hire firms, and maintenance contractors. Public sector suppliers and safety-conscious SMEs can also benefit.
4. Why is SSIP important?
It speeds up tendering, improves your chances of winning work, reassures clients about your health and safety standards, and can even lower insurance premiums. It also helps identify and close gaps in your procedures.
5. Which SSIP scheme should I choose?
CHAS, SMAS, SafeContractor, and others are all valid. Most buyers accept any SSIP member scheme, so choose based on cost, sector focus, and client preference.
6. What is involved in getting SSIP?
You’ll need to provide evidence such as:
A relevant health and safety policy
Risk assessments
Training records
Insurance certificates
Accident recording systems
Management procedures for planning work and handling emergencies
7. How long does the process take?
Allow 2–4 weeks for assessment once your documentation is ready. First-time applications may take longer, so plan ahead.
8. What are common mistakes to avoid?
Starting too late, choosing a scheme your clients don’t accept, submitting generic documents, or letting your accreditation lapse are all common pitfalls.
9. How much does SSIP registration cost?
Expect to pay £300–£800 per year, depending on your company size and chosen scheme. For most businesses, one contract win more than covers the cost.
10. Is SSIP worth it if my clients don’t ask for it yet?
Yes. It shows you take safety seriously, builds trust, and can help you stand out from competitors. It also ensures you have strong systems in place before they are needed.
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