BESA Guidance Framework For Principal Contractor Competence (PAS 8672)

The role of the Principal Contractor is central to ensuring safety, compliance, and effective risk management throughout the construction phase of a project. Principal Contractors play a critical part in coordinating work on site, managing risks, and helping deliver projects safely, efficiently, and in line with building regulations.

This guidance framework supports the application of PAS 8672:2022, which clarified and strengthened competence requirements for the Principal Contractor role. In particular, it reflects the requirement for organisations appointed as Principal Contractors to designate a competent individual with the necessary Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB) to carry out their statutory duties.

The framework provides a structured approach to understanding and implementing the competence expectations set out in PAS 8672. It defines recommended SKEB criteria for individuals performing Principal Contractor functions and supports a consistent, practical approach to competence assurance.

It also sets out competence requirements across key areas such as legal and contractual responsibilities, managing building work, planning and organising work, construction supervision and quality, leadership and competence culture, and stakeholder and information management. Designed for Principal Contractors, dutyholders, clients, and organisations involved in project delivery, it also includes an example competency assessment questionnaire to support procurement and self assessment.

Key Features:

• Explains the competence expectations set out in PAS 8672:2022
• Supports the designation of competent individuals with the required SKEB
• Provides a structured framework for assessing Principal Contractor competence
• Covers competence requirements across six key areas of project delivery
• Includes an example competency assessment questionnaire for procurement and self assessment

Published Date: 24/10/2025
Number Of Pages: 31
PDF Download