CONSTRUCTION DESIGN MANAGEMENT
Whilst there have been big improvements in the safety of construction workers and reducing the number of fatalities and accidents on construction projects it is still important to continue to assess and manage risks on construction projects. This is particularly true when you consider the continued presence of risks which can lead to ill-health or even fatalities, for example asbestos or lead in paint. Prior to any construction work commencing it is important to assess the risks which may be present during the construction process and identify methods which can be implemented to control these risks.
It is also important to consider the life-cycle maintenance and operation of the building(s) so that wherever possible potential risks can be ‘designed-out’. This will help to protect future building users and maintenance staff/contractors.
LEGISLATION
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 help ensure that the health, safety and welfare of construction workers, and subsequent building users and maintenance personnel, are taken into consideration during the design and construction phases of a construction project.
The CDM Regulations specify the duties of key members of the design and construction process. In order to ensure that you and/or your organisation complies with the CDM Regulations it is important for you to understand your role and what you are legally required to do.
The key duty holders affected by the CDM Regulations are:
- Commercial clients
- Principal designers
- Designers
- Principal contractors
- Contractors
- Workers
WHAT WE CAN DO
If you are the client, our knowledge and experience of design, construction and health and safety means that we can act as your appointed Principal Designer. As Principal Designer we will plan, manage, monitor and co-ordinate health and safety during both the design and construction phase. We can also help you to assess and select other duty holders prior to their appointment to the project.
If you are a Designer, Principal Contractor or Contractor we can provide your organisation with advice and support throughout the design and construction process, helping you to comply with the CDM Regulations. For example, if you are a designer we can help you to identify and address potential risks in the design or if you are a Principal Contractor we can help you to collate a construction phase plan.
KEY SERVICES
Principal Designer
Duty holder/supplier competence assessments
Advice and support
Construction site safety audits
CDM awareness training
CDM Advisor