Sustainable developments aim to reduce the
risk of accidents to users, passers-by and those involved in building them.
Ideally, they promote feelings of safety, relaxation or s
timulation as appropriate. Design has a
huge part to play in ensuring these goals are met. For example, building
designs that incorporate features which enhance safety for those with
disabilities or people with young children will be popular with users and be
durable. Building developers should also consider incorporating design-features
which have been shown to discourage crime - another way of ensuring the
well-being of the users of a particular site/building.
Buildings which are easy to find your way
around and include soothing aspects such as planting allow people to focus on
the activity in hand rather than obstacles or concerns. Construction planning
and procedures must also consider the safety of construction workers, other
people on site and neighbours. CDM and H&S Regulations will ensure adequate
protection for all in most instances, but sustainable development requires the
greatest possible care in precautionary and preventative measures.
- Has the design of the development and its relation to
its surroundings been appraised for effects on the safety of individuals? Has
this been shared with the local planning authority and the local community?
- Has a site hazards risk minimisation plan been prepared
for the construction period? (to include wastes, fuels, chemicals, materials,
structures, fencing etc)
- Has a site/building operators manual been prepared
covering risks and safety issues?
- Has the site/building been designed to minimise exposure
of individuals to harm? (eg night time lighting, landscape design,
accessibility to transport, site warden)
- Has the interaction between safety and other issues been
considered? (eg the conflict between security lighting and local tranquility
and darkness, between security and access)
- Avoidance of risk and hazardous events
- Health and safety for occupiers and users
- Insurance and claims cost advantages
- Popular buildings and areas
- Positive focus on the activities in and around the
building
- Reduced stress
- Social inclusion as all groups can use the development
- The Considerate Constructors Scheme, Tel: 01920 872837
- Secure by Design
- Health and safety regulations
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