Under the CDM regulations, what is the primary responsibility of designers on site?

• A. Eliminate foreseeable hazards and coordinate safety
• B. Minimise project cost
• C. Directly supervise site workers
• D. Prepare marketing materials

Answer: (A)

Designers on site are expected to build safety into the project from the outset. Their job under the CDM regulations is to think through how the design could create hazards during construction and operation, and to eliminate those hazards or reduce the risks as much as reasonably possible through design decisions. They must also coordinate safety information and actions with other duty holders so everyone on site can work safely. This proactive, design-led focus helps prevent problems before construction starts and ensures that the construction process itself is safer.

That’s why this option is best: it captures both removing foreseeable hazards through design and coordinating safety with the rest of the project team. Cost minimisation, supervising site workers, or creating marketing materials don’t address the safety and coordination responsibilities that CDM assigns to designers.