The CDM Regulations – The Principal Designer and Designers

Course Description

 

This online training course provides a focused insight into the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) with particular emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of the Principal Designer and Designers. It explains the legal duties, best practices, and specific obligations under CDM for those involved in design work, design coordination, and ensuring health, safety, and welfare throughout the planning and design phases of construction projects. The course aims to equip participants with knowledge to help ensure compliance, reduce risk, and promote safety by design.

Who is this for?

This course is intended for design professionals, architects, engineers, design consultants, project planners, and anyone who acts as ,or works closely with, a Principal Designer under CDM. It is also suitable for those from client organisations or construction firms who need to understand how design decisions impact health and safety obligations, and how the design stage can be used proactively to minimise risks on site.

Course Content:

• Introduction to the CDM Regulations, scope, purpose and relevant definitions
• The legal role and duties of the Principal Designer
• Responsibilities of Designers under CDM: what designers must do in planning and preparing designs
• Cooperation, coordination and communication between clients, designers, contractors, and Principal Designer
• Ensuring health, safety and welfare are considered at all stages of design
• Risk identification during design, and designing out hazards where possible
• Preparing and maintaining relevant documentation (e.g. health and safety file)
• Best practice guidance: design reviews, risk assessments, and liaison with other duty-holders
• Practical examples or case studies to illustrate good design practice and common pitfalls

Course Benefits:

• A clear understanding of the legal obligations of Principal Designers and Designers under CDM
• Improved ability to integrate health, safety, and welfare into design phases, reducing risk from the outset
• Enhanced communication and coordination skills with other duty-holders, improving project outcomes
• Practical knowledge to help avoid design-related delays, cost overruns, or safety incidents
• Evidence of up-to-date training/capability via a certificate, useful for regulatory compliance and demonstrating professional competence
• Confidence in making design decisions that contribute to safer and more efficient construction projects