How to Manage Contractors with EHS Software

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, independent contractors make up 6.9% of the nation’s total employment pool: approximately 10.6 million people. Janitorial staff, HVAC technicians, electricians, carpenters, and more all work as independent contractors, selling their services to both individuals and corporations. 

Contractors pose a problem for environment, health, and safety programs, as they come to the workforce with varying degrees of experience and safety training that may not meet regulatory requirements or in-house safety standards. EHS management software offers a solution.

What is Workforce Management Software?

Workforce management software describes applications that help manage staff scheduling, safety, and productivity. Often part of an EHS software package, workforce management software can be used to monitor and ensure both in-house and contractor employees comply with safety standards. 

Contractor Management Safety Considerations

Proper contractor management ensures all contracted personnel have the training needed to mitigate workplace hazards. They need to demonstrate a proper understanding of PPE use, equipment operation, fall protection, and other safety requirements while providing any relevant certifications.

As part of a larger EHS management system, contractor management software streamlines the process of ensuring contractors meet all relevant safety requirements through a series of strategies, including:

• Creating safety-specific contracts: An EHS management system monitors and oversees all contractor contracts. Make safety performance part of the contract, so funds can be withheld until contractors meet safety requirements. 
• Ensuring all contractors receive proper induction training: Induction training ensures contractors receive proper safety training before entering the worksite, have a thorough understanding of the company’s safety and emergency procedures, and possess all relevant work permits and certifications. 
• Tracking contractor safety KPIs: EHS management software allows for the creation of safety-related KPIs. Use safety metrics to provide clearly visible KPIs for safety adherence that make all employees, including contractors, accountable for their safety performance.
• Including post-project safety evaluations: Use data supplied by workplace management software to inform post-project and annual contractor evaluations. 

Using a Third-Party EHS Management System

Maintaining a workplace management system is both costly and time-consuming. For these reasons, most corporations use third-party software vendors. Third-party management solutions provide standard pre qualifications for employees and contractors, flagging any workers who require extra training and monitoring how well contractors abide by your safety standards.