Safe Design: A Source for Innovation in the Built Environment

Abstract

For the safe design concept to take hold within the design community, the negative connotations of safety within the design world must be removed. Considering safety during the design phases of projects presents a key opportunity for innovative and creative responses that can not only enhance safety but also positively affect cost, quality, schedule, and other traditional business parameters. Safe design is an untapped source for innovation. This paper describes the creative opportunities that can occur when safe design is embedded and practiced. Examples are provided that demonstrate these innovations. Working up the hierarchy of controls, eliminating and reducing foreseeable site hazards is difficult but yields a greater opportunity for creativity. Construction and safety professionals should educate designers about these opportunities and adapt their approach to work with the design professions. Design professionals should evaluate safety as any other idea, approach safe design as an expansion of their design deliverables, and use it as a source for creative and innovative design.