Fiontar Group offers expert PSDP services in Ireland and the UK, supporting both PSDP and Principal Designer roles. As a result, we help ensure full compliance with design-stage health and safety regulations across Ireland and the UK, guiding your team from planning through to execution.
In this article, we’ll clarify the difference between the Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) role in Ireland and the Principal Designer role in the UK, and show how Fiontar Group can support your team with end-to-end compliance.
PSDP Services in Ireland – Role & Responsibilities
The Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) is a legally required appointment under Ireland’s Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013. Specifically, the PSDP manages health and safety during the design phase of a construction project, ensuring that they identify, reduce, or eliminate risks early in the process.
Key Responsibilities of the PSDP:
- Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment: Ensure the design team assesses and controls all design-related risks.
- Coordination: Promote communication between designers, contractors, and clients.
- Health and Safety Plan: In addition, this plan ensures early coordination between all design stakeholders.
- Compliance Monitoring: The PSDP verifies that all design team members follow their safety obligations under the law.
- Consequently, The PSDP plays a vital part in maintaining safety standards throughout the project lifecycle.
- Safety File Preparation: Prepare the safety file directly for the client and deliver it on time.
Principal Designer Services in the UK – Explained
In the UK, under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), the equivalent role is known as the Principal Designer. The Principal Designer plans, manages, and monitors health and safety during the pre-construction phase.
Key Responsibilities of the Principal Designer:
- Design Risk Management: Coordinate risk assessments among all designers.
- Information Sharing: Ensure the design team provides and acts upon pre-construction information.
- Health and Safety Coordination: Communicate safety expectations to the principal contractor.
- Legal Compliance: Advise the client on their duties under CDM 2015.
- Liaison: The Principal Designer coordinates with the design and construction teams to embed safety throughout the project.

Ireland vs UK: PSDP and Principal Designer Key Differences
| Feature | PSDP (Ireland) | Principal Designer (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Legislation | Safety, Health & Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013 | CDM Regulations 2015 |
| Focus Phase | Design phase | Pre-construction phase |
| Appointed By | Client | Client |
| Legal Requirement | Yes (for most projects) | Yes (if more than one contractor involved) |
| Core Duties | Risk management, coordination, safety planning | Health & safety planning, information management |
Our PSDP Services in Ireland and the UK
Moreover, with offices in Dublin, Belfast, and London, Fiontar Group is ideally positioned to support clients with cross-border projects. In fact, we have a proven track record in fulfilling both the PSDP and Principal Designer responsibilities in accordance with national laws.
Additionally, our services include:
- Full Regulatory Compliance: Guidance through Irish and UK safety legislation.
- We create tailored Safety and Health Plans or Pre-Construction Information packages to suit your project.
- Design Risk Management: Early-stage hazard identification and mitigation strategies.
- Communication Facilitation: Stakeholder coordination to ensure safety is a shared responsibility.
- We manage all documentation, including safety files, reports, and audits, from start to finish.
Do You Need PSDP Services in Ireland or a Principal Designer in the UK?
For instance, projects with multiple contractors almost always require one of these appointments.Therefore, if your project involves multiple contractors, you are likely legally required to appoint a PSDP in Ireland or a Principal Designer in the UK. Not sure? Our experts can advise you in minutes.
Contact Fiontar Group Today
In conclusion, we’re ready to ensure safety compliance Whether your project is based in Ireland or the UK, Fiontar Group can act as your PSDP or Principal Designer, helping you meet your legal obligations efficiently and effectively.
Call us today or email, or simply contact us to schedule a free consultation.
