What is a Safety File? Complete Guide for SA Contractors

If you're new to construction or just starting out as a contractor in South Africa, you've probably been asked: "Do you have a safety file?" But what exactly is a safety file, and why do you need one?

Simple Definition

A safety file is a folder (physical or digital) containing all the health and safety documents for a construction project. Think of it as proof that you take safety seriously and have plans in place to protect workers.

Why Do You Need One?

It's the law. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and Construction Regulations 2014 require every contractor working on construction sites to have a safety file.

If you don't have one:

• You can be fined by the Department of Labour
• You can be barred from construction sites
• Principal contractors won't let you work
• You can't tender for government work
• You're personally liable if accidents happen

Who Needs a Safety File?

Everyone involved in construction needs a safety file:

• Building contractors
• Electrical contractors
• Plumbers
• Painters
• Roofers
• Tilers
• Any trade working on a construction site

Even if you're a small operation doing renovations, you need a safety file.

What's Inside a Safety File?

The main sections are:

• **Company information** - Your health and safety policy
• **Appointments** - Who's responsible for safety
• **Risk assessments** - What hazards exist and how you'll control them
• **Safe work procedures** - Step-by-step safe methods
• **Emergency plans** - What to do if things go wrong
• **Training records** - Proof your workers are trained
• **Registers** - Daily records of attendance, PPE, etc.

How Much Does a Safety File Cost?

• DIY: Free (but takes 2-3 days of your time)
• Safety consultant: R2,000 - R5,000
• SiteReady: R499 (same day via WhatsApp)

The Easy Way

Don't have time to compile a safety file yourself? WhatsApp SiteReady and we'll create a complete, customized safety file for your trade in under 4 hours.