When it starts any type of workWhether it is a partial renovation, a new home or a commercial property, there is one aspect that should never be overlooked: the security of workers. Spanish regulations require the incorporation of a prevention document in all projects: the health and safety study (ESS) or the basic health and safety study (EBSS). Both guarantee that the work is carried out under safe conditions and in accordance with current legislation.
So, which one does your project need? Here we explain what each one is, when it is required and why it is always mandatory to have one or the other.
What is the health and safety study?
The health and safety study (ESS) is a technical document that forms part of the execution project when the work has certain characteristics that imply greater risk or complexity. Its main function is to identifying occupational hazards and defining preventive measures necessary to protect workers during the work.
This study includes:
- Detailed analysis of the risks present in the work.
- Measures of prevention and protection collective and individual.
- Conditions of access, circulation and signposting.
- Planning the coordination between different trades or companies.
- Assessment of the environment and site-specific conditions.
It must be drafted by a competent technician (engineer, architect or quantity surveyor) and must be submitted prior to the commencement of work.
What is the basic health and safety study?
The study basic health and safety (EBSS) is a simpler document, but it mandatory in all cases where full study is not required. Their objective is the same: to ensure that the work is carried out in safe conditions.
It includes:
- Main risks associated with the planned work.
- Preventive measures general.
- Indications on the use of protective equipment.
- Minimum standards for the development of the work.
Although shorter, it should also be prepared by a competent technician and is part of the technical project which is submitted to apply for a building permit.
ImportantIf your project does not require a health and safety study, you will need to submit the basic health and safety study. There is no option to omit both.
When is a health and safety study or other required?
According to the Royal Decree 1627/1997the a health and safety study is compulsory when the work:
- It involves the intervention of more than one company or contractors.
- Includes special riskssuch as working at heights, deep excavations, handling hazardous materials or close to power lines.
- It has a budget over 450.759,08€..
- Its duration exceeds 30 days and more than 20 employees on the construction site.
In all other cases - e.g. minor works, renovation of dwellings, commercial premises or one-off works - the basic health and safety study. Although the intervention is simple, this document is not optional.
Why is it so important to comply with this regulation?
In addition to being a legal requirement to obtain licences and avoid sanctions, these studies:
- They help to preventing accidents at work.
- They promote a correct planning and organisation of work.
- They ensure compliance with the occupational health and safety regulations.
- They serve as a basis for on-site safety coordination.
The absence of these documents can lead to delays, the paralysation of the work or even fines by the administration.
At PBM Ingeniería we advise you from the very first step
Do you have doubts about what documentation your project needs? At PBM Engineering We analyse each case and draw up the ESS or EBSS as required by the regulations.
Contact us at without obligation and make sure you comply with the law from the start.
Professionals, technicians and private individuals already trust us to guarantee safe and well-planned works.
Find out about our skills in Engineer Malaga - Miguel Pulido Bendavid - Chartered Engineer
