Principal Designer Roles Explained
The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) changes have been applicable since 1 October 2023. It is fair to say they have thrown up a lot of confusion. CLPM have a dedicated Consultant to focus on this, here are our findings.
We have briefly outlined the difference between a CDM Principal Designer and a Building Regulations Principal Designer. CDM being the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. CDM regulations were initiated to improve health and safety in the construction industry by helping to sensibly plan works so the risks involved are managed from start to finish.
In essence there are now two Principal Designer roles for any construction project that are subject to building regulations, and will require more than one contractor.
The two roles lay within two separate regulatory frameworks, so it is important you understand the differences. One being within CDM regulations and the other under the BSA – though this may be the same person/company if they have the necessary experience and skillset.
Here’s our breakdown:
CDM Principal Designer:
- CDM stands for the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, which aim to improve health and safety in the construction industry.
- The CDM Principal Designer is a role designated under the CDM Regulations. Their primary responsibility is to plan, manage, monitor, and coordinate health and safety during the pre-construction phase of a project.
- The CDM Principal Designer ensures that health and safety considerations are integrated into the design process from the outset and that risks are properly managed throughout the project lifecycle.
- This role is specifically focused on health and safety aspects and ensuring compliance with the CDM Regulations.
For this to have maximum success, the CDM Principal Designer needs to be onboard at the beginning of the project, so they can have an input into the design. This role often sits with the architect who is designing the project. However a contractor or independent professional can be appointed. This can be beneficial for an expert to challenge and question the architect designs to ensure they are health and safety compliant.
If only one contractor will be appointed on a project, there is no need for a separate Principal Designer to be appointed as that contractor will automatically take on the role.
Building Regulations Principal Designer:
- Building regulations are legal requirements for the design and construction of buildings in the UK. They cover various aspects such as structural stability, fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
- A Building Regs Principal Designer is not a specific role designated under a regulation like the CDM Principal Designer. Instead, it refers to the person or organisation responsible for ensuring that the design of a building complies with the relevant building regulations.
- The Building Regs Principal Designer works to ensure that the design meets all the necessary regulatory requirements set out in the Building Regulations.
- Their responsibilities may include coordinating with various stakeholders. Such as architects, engineers, and builders. This is to ensure that the design is compliant and that the necessary documentation is submitted to the appropriate authorities for approval.
Summary
In summary, both roles involve overseeing aspects of design in the construction industry. The CDM Principal Designer focuses specifically on health and safety compliance under the CDM Regulations. Whereas the Building Regs Principal Designer ensures compliance with the broader set of building regulations governing the design and construction of buildings.
It is essential that a client understands the role of each, and appoints the relevant roles in writing.
Note, despite all this, these roles can be carried out by the same person or company.
Why not talk to CLPM?
We can also provide you with all the advice and support you need during each phase of your project.
If you would like more details, please do get in touch. Call 01923 896550, email info@cl-m.com or complete a contact form.
Blog: Principal Designer Roles Explained
