CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) is one of the most recognised health and safety compliance schemes in the UK. For contractors, security companies, and construction businesses, passing a CHAS assessment is no longer optional; it is often a minimum requirement to access tenders, framework agreements, and site approvals.
This guide explains the core CHAS assessment standards, what assessors look for, and how UK businesses can prepare effectively.
What is CHAS and why does it matter in the UK?
CHAS is a UK-based accreditation scheme designed to assess a company’s health and safety management systems. Buyers, councils, and principal contractors rely on CHAS to pre-qualify suppliers quickly and consistently.
CHAS accreditation demonstrates that your business:
- Meets UK health and safety legislation
- Has structured risk management processes
- Is compliant, professional, and tender-ready
For many UK contracts, no CHAS means no access.
Core CHAS Assessment Standards Explained
CHAS assessments are based on recognised UK legislation and industry best practice. Below are the most common standards assessed during CHAS approval.
1. Health & Safety Policy
Assessors expect a clear, up-to-date Health & Safety Policy that reflects your actual operations.
Key requirements:
- Signed and dated by senior management
- Clearly defined responsibilities
- Reviewed annually
- Relevant to your business activities
A generic or outdated policy is one of the main reasons companies fail CHAS.
2. Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS)
CHAS places strong emphasis on how risks are identified and controlled.
You must demonstrate:
- Site-specific risk assessments
- Task-based method statements
- Evidence that staff understand and follow RAMS
- Regular reviews and updates
RAMS must be practical, not copied templates.
3. Training, Competence & Supervision
CHAS assessors verify that workers are competent for their roles.
This includes:
- Training records and certificates
- Induction processes
- Toolbox talks
- Ongoing supervision procedures
Missing or expired training documentation often leads to assessment delays or rejection.
4. Accident Reporting & Incident Management
Your business must show how it manages incidents professionally.
CHAS requires:
- Accident reporting procedures
- RIDDOR awareness
- Incident investigation processes
- Corrective and preventive actions
Assessors look for evidence that lessons are learned, not just recorded.
5. Monitoring, Audits & Review Processes
CHAS is not a one-time setup. Assessors want to see continuous improvement.
This includes:
- Internal safety checks
- Site inspections
- Management reviews
- Documented improvements
Businesses that fail to show monitoring often struggle at renewal.
6. Subcontractor & Supplier Management
If you use subcontractors, CHAS expects proper control.
You must demonstrate:
- Pre-qualification checks
- Health & safety vetting
- Clear communication of responsibilities
- Ongoing performance monitoring
This is especially important for construction and security services.
7. Compliance With UK Health & Safety Law
CHAS standards align closely with UK legislation, including:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations
- CDM Regulations (where applicable)
Your documentation must clearly reflect legal compliance, not assumptions.
Common Challenges Companies Face with CHAS Assessments
From our experience at BizGrow Holdings, the most common failures include:
- Generic policies copied from the internet
- Incomplete RAMS
- Missing training evidence
- Poor document structure
- Lack of ongoing review processes
CHAS is not difficult, but it is detailed.
How BizGrow Holdings Helps You Pass CHAS First Time
BizGrow Holdings supports UK businesses through the entire CHAS process, including:
- Policy creation and review
- CHAS-compliant RAMS preparation
- Gap analysis before submission
- Assessor-ready documentation
- Renewal and ongoing compliance support
Our approach focuses on accuracy, clarity, and audit readiness, not shortcuts.
Final Thoughts
CHAS accreditation is a powerful credibility tool in the UK market. Understanding the common CHAS assessment standards enables businesses to prepare effectively, avoid delays, and secure more favourable contract opportunities.
With the right structure and professional guidance, CHAS approval becomes a business advantage, not an obstacle.
If you want your CHAS application done correctly, compliantly, and efficiently, BizGrow Holdings is here to help.