Reducing Construction Risk with VDC
Discover how VDC transforms construction—reducing risk, cutting rework, and saving time. Insights from Kapitol, Neoscape & Architectus
This October, in recognition of National Safe Work Month, we’re showcasing how we’re redefining safety in construction through a series of specialised Safety in Design Workshops. Our innovative approach is transforming how we address safety risks across the project lifecycle, setting new benchmarks for construction management.
The Traditional Approach to Safety in Design
Traditionally, a builder becomes involved in Safety in Design late in the design process, typically when the design is 80% complete. At this stage, builders are brought in to:
While this process is vital, it often feels like a ‘tick-the-box’ exercise, offering limited opportunities for meaningful design changes that could effectively mitigate risks. In the past, Safety in Design workshops often consisted of simply reviewing consultant documentation, relying heavily on the designer’s understanding of the project.
Enhancing Safety in Design with BIM
At Kapitol, BIM is utilised to provide attendees with a clear, visual representation of the project elements being discussed and reviewed. Unlike traditional 2D drawings, the 3D BIM model allows everyone involved—designers, trades, and even non-technical stakeholders—to better understand complex aspects of the design. This visual clarity encourages more productive discussions, making it easier to spot potential safety risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Once the models are coordinated by the consultant team and federated by Kapitol, the project team conducts the Safety in Design Workshops. The BIM model facilitates deeper collaboration, helping the team proactively address safety concerns before they escalate into costly or dangerous issues on-site.
Expanding Safety Focus with Multiple Workshops
During our Safety-in-Design process for the Stage 2 development at NEXTDC’s M3 Melbourne data centre, instead of a single four-to-six-hour meeting that attempts to cover all aspects of safety, we facilitate six-to-eight targeted Safety in Design Workshops. Each workshop is dedicated to specific disciplines—mechanical, structural, electrical, and more—during the spatial design phase when there is greater opportunity to influence the design. By conducting these targeted workshops, Kapitol aims to equip NEXTDC with a streamlined list of risks that will require operational protocols to ensure the safety of end users and those involved in the construction phase.
Benefits of the New Workshop Format
Collaboration: The Heart of Safety in Design
We believe that everyone involved in a project—from designers and trades to end-users—plays a crucial role in making a building safer for all. Our approach to Safety in Design at M3 Stage 2 is about harnessing this collective knowledge to build safer, more efficient buildings, setting a new benchmark for safety in the construction industry.
Lessons Learned from M3 Stage 1
Our experience from M3 Stage 1 has highlighted the importance of involving the facility management team earlier in the design process. Their day-to-day experience with the building provided invaluable feedback on design issues that could have been avoided.
Key Insights Gained:
Leveraging Early Contractor Involvement (ECI)
Being in the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase gives us a unique opportunity to influence the design well before construction begins. This allows us to incorporate valuable feedback from:
With facility managers, NEXTDC’s health and safety team, trade partners, and our design and construction experts involved, our Safety in Design Workshops enable us to comprehensively address potential safety risks from all angles.
Through our workshops, we’re committed to going beyond standard safety protocols and integrating the perspectives of those who use and build our spaces daily. By leveraging collaboration and early involvement, we are ensuring that safety is a foundational aspect of our projects.
