Posted By Richie Hello, I have recently secured a move from generalist H&S with around 25% CDM activity, to 100% civils, therefore 100% CDM projects. I am to undertake the Principal Contractor H&S Manager role, however I perceive a change in role in the future may be to CDM Co-ordinator. I am nervous regarding the design parameters of the CDM Co-ordinator role, therefore I aim to do something about it, maybe by way of a Post-Grad Cert or Dip to satisfy the need. I have not, however, been able to identify a course which would bolster this competence. Anyone out there know of such a course? Just in case anyone is about to scream "experience", Yep, I know, but experience based upon a body of learning is in my experience always better. Richie.

Posted By SJA Hi Richie Despite the excellent course recommended by Paul, the only way you will (as you have already indicated) gain any insight or experience of the design process is to have worked as a designer. This is way the CDM ACOP specifically cites chartered membership of a professional body (such as CIBSE; ICE; IEE; IMechE; IStructE; RIBA; CIAT; CIOB). If as you state you are involved in Civil's projects, then it is fair to assume that these will often be fairly involved, with significant ground works and above/below ground structures, not to mention any MEICA input. Probably not what you want to hear but it is the case that the only way to gain the experience you need is have worked as a designer for some length of time. I am a Chartered Civil Engineer (as well as CMIOSH) and spent 15 years working as a civil engineering designer and during this time I was involved in a wide variety of projects but there are still many areas where my competence would be lacking due to the specialised nature of the profession. Unfortunately spending 12 months working in a design office would never provide you with the necessary experience, most construction graduates take 7+ years post graduation experience before they attain chartered status, and then this is after a peer review and professional examination. The course referred to in the previous posting will tell you about the role of the CDM co-ordinator and the requirements of the CDM regulations, but it will never provide you with what you have indicated you are looking for. In my opinion you would be better looking for a PGC/D/MSC in Construction Design Management, of which there are several around the UK. Unfortunately there is no quick and easy way to address this issue and the lack of such experience was often blamed as the reason for some Planning Supervisors being viewed so poorly. I hope that this helps.

Posted By steve bielby A 3 day course won't do it. An ONC, HNC or degree will. You cant but competence in 3 days.

Posted By Phill Firmin Richie, I don't know of a course as such, this kind of stuff is I believe now being incorporated into the Civils courses. Try contacting CIC, ICE or APS for specific information. You may find some useful stuff at CIRIA - especially the Work Sector Guidance report, more designers should be using this! There is a website somewhere that covers 'Designer' issues and could be used for self-learning, it has a number of design project case studies which covers the essentials, it is quite well laid out. Sorry I cannot remember or find this at the moment. visit: http://www.safetyindesign.org/index.htm View the top menu - which is useful, especially the Design Guides Package (downloadable) Despite these comments a certain amount of 'perception' is required to address, not only the design issues, but the construction processes to completion as well. If you have any further queries contact me direct: phillip.firmin@mhs.org.uk Stay safe, Phill.