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Principal Designer CDM

Confused about when to bring a Principal Designer (CDM)  into your project? Don’t panic - we’re here to help…

June 23, 2023

Design projects, particularly those in construction, are multifaceted, complex and require highly-skilled professionals to oversee their execution. An example of such a professional is a Principal Designer – whose role, though often misunderstood, is crucial to the success of your project.

If you’re scratching your head with questions such as: 

  • When does a CDM project require a Principal Designer?
  • What stage of the CDM project will they be involved in?
  • What tasks will they oversee?
  • Are Principal Designers an additional expense?

Worry not – because the team here at pm Connections are here to shed some light on these critical questions. But first, let’s get back to basics…

 

Understanding the role of a Principal Designer (CDM)

A Principal Designer plays a central role in managing and coordinating health and safety during the pre-construction phase of a CDM project.

They have a profound understanding of the construction process, knowledge of the relevant laws and regulations and an ability to communicate effectively with all involved parties. Their main role is to ensure, where possible, that the project is carried out without risks to health and safety. 

Their duties include:

  • Planning, managing and monitoring
  • Assisting with pre-construction information
  • Liaising with the Principal Contractor
  • Collaboration with other designers and contractors

 

Identifying when a Principal Designer (CDM) is needed

A Principal Designer is required when the construction project is anticipated to involve more than one contractor. This is specified under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. Penalties for not appointing a Principal Designer when required include heavy fines, loss of production, compensation pay-outs and legal costs. 

Under CDM, a Principal Designer must be appointed: 

  • By the client
  • On all construction projects with more than one contractor
  • At the start of the project 

 

At what stage of a project is a Principal Designer (CDM) required?

The Principal Designer should be appointed at the earliest stage possible stage of the project – i.e. during the conceptual and planning stages and extending throughout the entirety of the design process. 

 

What are the reasons for bringing on a Principal Designer (CDM) as soon as possible?

The Principal Designer carries out numerous roles throughout the project, and it’s crucial that these responsibilities are fulfilled early on in the project. These include: 

  • Health and safety planning 

A core part of their role is to manage, monitor and coordinate health and safety during the pre-construction phase. This involves identifying and eliminating foreseeable risks to the health and safety of those involved in the construction, as well as future users of the building. 

  • Design Risk Management 

Principal Designers not only handle design risks but also provide guidance to designers on ongoing design risk management strategies. Involving a Principal Designer at the earliest stage ensures time and monetary savings, as it prevents the necessity for costly design alterations in the later stages.

  • Communication and Coordination 

They are responsible for ensuring the team is effectively communicating throughout the project and where relevant, liaising with the Principal Contractor. Essentially, a  large part of their role is ensuring that the project runs as smoothly as possible and that all relevant stakeholders are working together effectively.

  • Client Assistance

Finally, another critical part of their role is to assist the client in understanding the duties that the CDM Regulations impose on them. The risks of not adhering to these regulations can bear severe consequences and result in substantial costs – this is another reason that it’s best to get them on board at the earliest opportunity. 

 

As the list above exemplifies, without early involvement from a Principal Designer, your project may face several avoidable obstacles and challenges. 

 

How do you choose the correct Principal Designer for your project?

So you know that you need to appoint a Principal Designer – but you’re a little confused over where to begin.

Choosing the right Principal Designer for your project is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your project’s success. 

Things that we advise you to look for are:

  • A strong portfolio of previous projects similar to yours
  • Proven competence within your project area
  • Clear communication skills and a willingness to help
  • A deep understanding of relevant laws and regulations
  • The ability to work well with a diverse team

 

Are Principal Designers an added expense to your project?

Yes, hiring a qualified and experienced Principal Designer will come with a fee. 

However, the simple truth is that the financial implications of not hiring the right person or company for the job can result in considerable legal expenses in the long run. That’s not to mention the time, resources and money saved by ensuring your project stays on schedule and is running efficiently. 

We, therefore, believe that the best way to consider the initial costs of your Principal Designer as an investment, saving you resources and money along the way. 

 

Choose pm Connections

Here at pm Connections, we have over 18 years of industry experience acting as Principal Designers across countless and varied CDM projects. We are a leading Health & Safety practitioner across Cheshire and the UK – and pride ourselves in our down-to-earth, knowledgeable and friendly approach. 

To find out more common misconceptions about the role of a Principal Designer, check out our previous blog post here…

Alternatively, if you’re on the lookout for a Principal Designer for your next CDM Project or have any questions about how we can benefit your project, please give us a ring on 01925 649 818 or drop us a message here! 

 

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