Principal Designer - Health & Safety vs Building Regulations

As construction professionals, we are all familiar with the role of the Principal Designer (Health and Safety)—a key figure responsible for planning, managing, and coordinating health and safety during the pre-construction phase of a project. However, following the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, a new and distinct role has emerged: the Principal Designer (Building Regulations).

This change forms part of the UK government’s commitment to improving building safety standards, particularly in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The Principal Designer (Building Regulations) is now a mandatory appointment on all construction projects, regardless of size or complexity.

In contrast, the Principal Designer (Health and Safety) is only required when more than one contractor is involved on a project. While both roles involve oversight and coordination, they differ significantly in their purpose and regulatory framework:

• Principal Designer (Health and Safety) operates under the CDM Regulations 2015 and focuses on ensuring that health and safety risks are managed throughout the design and planning stages.

• Principal Designer (Building Regulations) is appointed under the Building Regulations as amended by the Building Safety Act 2022 and is responsible for ensuring that building work complies with all applicable regulations, including fire safety and structural integrity.

Here’s a brief breakdown below:

For more information, get in touch with our team – 01604 859859 / hello@goodrichllp.com.