Planning tools for integrating health and safety in construction

Approaches to planning for health and safety in the UK construction industry have been criticised for being bureaucratic and irrelevant, especially if done by individuals in isolation. This paper reports on the findings of a research project, commissioned by the UK Health and Safety Executive, which investigated the integration of health and safety with construction project planning. A combination of group and individual interviews were undertaken, with qualitative methods of analysis, to develop integrated management tools for all members of the project team. Eight integrated tools were developed: a responsibility chart; an option evaluation chart; health and safety hazard workshops; safety information on drawings; red–amber–green lists; health and safety milestones on programmes; and a design change control process. These were found to aid project planning while simultaneously integrating health and safety issues. However, recommendations are given on how their application can be improved.