Safety in Design Checklist
Perform Safety in Design Inspection using eAuditor Safety in Design refers to the proactive approach of integrating safety considerations into the design phase of a project, product, or system to eliminate or minimize risks to people, property, and the environment throughout its lifecycle. It ensures that hazards are identified early, and safe solutions are built into the design, reducing the need for costly modifications or protective measures later. Performing Safety in Design Inspection using eAuditor ensures a systematic, thorough, and digitally documented review of a project’s design to identify and mitigate potential safety hazards before construction, installation, or operation. This proactive approach helps minimize risks to people, property, and the environment throughout the project lifecycle, while providing real-time tracking, evidence capture, and accountability through eAuditor. - Preparation Phase 1.1 Define Scope of Safety Review - Identify all aspects of the project design requiring safety assessment: - Structural elements, architectural layouts, and finishes. - Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. - Operational and maintenance procedures. - External elements such as landscaping, access routes, and utilities. - Define objectives: hazard identification, risk evaluation, and implementation of mitigation strategies. 1.2 Gather Design Documentation - As-built drawings, design specifications, and project plans. - Risk assessments, past safety reports, and regulatory requirements. - Manufacturer manuals, material specifications, and installation guides. 1.3 Assign Roles and Responsibilities - Allocate review tasks to multidisciplinary teams: engineers, architects, safety officers, and project managers. - Assign eAuditor roles for documenting findings, capturing images, and assigning corrective actions. - Design Review and Hazard Assessment 2.1 Structural and Architectural Safety - Verify structural stability and load-bearing capacity. - Assess access, egress, and evacuation routes for safety and compliance. - Check for ergonomic and human-factor considerations in layouts. 2.2 MEP Systems Safety - Evaluate HVAC, electrical, and plumbing designs for potential hazards. - Ensure fire safety systems, alarms, and emergency provisions are adequately designed. - Review safety interlocks, controls, and emergency shutdown systems. 2.3 Material and Equipment Selection - Confirm that construction materials are safe, durable, and suitable for intended use. - Evaluate potential chemical, fire, or environmental hazards associated with materials. - Ensure equipment specifications meet safety standards. 2.4 Operational and Maintenance Safety - Review design for safe operation, maintenance, and repair access. - Check that safety signage, guardrails, and protective barriers are incorporated in the design. - Evaluate ergonomic considerations for personnel interaction with systems and equipment. 2.5 Regulatory Compliance Verification - Ensure the design meets local building codes, occupational health standards, environmental regulations, and international safety standards. - Document any non-compliance issues and required design modifications in eAuditor. - Documentation and Reporting 3.1 Checklist Completion in eAuditor - Use a pre-configured Safety in Design checklist covering structural, architectural, MEP, material, and operational aspects. - Capture photos, drawings, and notes for all identified hazards and risk areas. 3.2 Risk Mitigation and Punch List - Document required design changes, risk mitigation measures, or additional controls. - Assign responsibility, timelines, and priority levels for corrective actions. - Track resolution progress digitally in eAuditor until completion. 3.3 Final Review and Sign-Off - Conduct a formal review meeting with project stakeholders. - Generate comprehensive digital inspection reports including all findings, photos, and corrective actions. - Obtain sign-off from design engineers, safety officers, and project managers. - Post-Inspection Follow-Up 4.1 Monitor Implementation of Safety Measures - Ensure all recommended changes are incorporated into the design. - Track updates and revisions in eAuditor for accountability. 4.2 Continuous Improvement - Analyze recurring hazards or design challenges to improve future projects. - Update eAuditor checklist items to enhance the Safety in Design review process. Summary Performing a Safety in Design Inspection using eAuditor provides a structured, preventive, and fully documented approach to identify, assess, and mitigate safety risks in project designs. By reviewing structural, architectural, MEP, material, and operational elements, and tracking corrective actions digitally, the process ensures regulatory compliance, minimizes hazards, and supports safe construction and operational practices. Read the full article