Health and Safety Coordinator: Everything You Need to Know for A Safe Construction Site

CONSTRUCTION

Apr 15

Written By Francisco Javier Muñoz Fuentes

When we think about a construction project, we usually picture blueprints, materials, and machinery... But we rarely consider the most important aspect: the safety of the people working on site. This is where a crucial yet often overlooked figure comes into play: the Health and Safety Coordinator (HSC). Do you really know the role they play in every project? Let’s break it down:

WHAT IS A HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR?

The Health and Safety Coordinator (HSC) is the technical professional responsible for planning, controlling, and coordinating occupational risk prevention measures during the different phases of a construction project. Their main role is to ensure that work is carried out safely, minimizing risks and preventing accidents. This role is regulated by Royal Decree 1627/1997, which sets the minimum safety and health requirements on construction sites in Spain.

WHEN IS A HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR REQUIRED?

Not every construction project legally requires an HSC, but in most cases, it is mandatory. Specifically, Spanish law requires appointing a coordinator whenever more than one company is involved in a project—or when a company and one or more self-employed workers are working together. Even in projects with just one contractor, a coordinator may still be required depending on the complexity of the work. That’s why for most residential or renovation projects, having an HSC is essential.

WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE HSC?

The Health and Safety Coordinator has a role both during the project design phase and during the construction phase:

During the design phase, they are responsible for drafting or reviewing the Health and Safety Study and ensuring that risk prevention principles are integrated from the start.
During the construction phase, their responsibilities include:

Coordinating the implementation of the Health and Safety Plan.
Adapting the plan if there are project changes.
Monitoring compliance with safety measures by all companies and workers on site.
Acting as a liaison with labor inspectors when needed.
Conducting regular site visits, writing technical reports, and, if necessary, recommending the suspension of work due to serious risk.

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WHO CAN BE A HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR IN ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS?

This role must be filled by a professional with a technical background in construction, such as an architect, technical architect, engineer, or technical engineer, who also holds specific training in occupational risk prevention (minimum 200 hours, as required by law). It’s not enough to simply be a construction technician—you need additional qualifications and experience in safety.

WHY IS THE HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR SO IMPORTANT?

Beyond being a legal requirement in many cases, the HSC adds enormous value to any project. Their work reduces the risk of workplace accidents, ensures regulatory compliance, and fosters a safer, more efficient work environment. Their presence also boosts the image of the developer or builder, showing a strong commitment to the safety and well-being of the workforce.

In short, a good HSC identifies and addresses risks before they become problems. Their work not only protects lives—it also safeguards the project from technical, legal, and financial setbacks.

HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM A SAFETY RESOURCE?

It’s important not to confuse the Health and Safety Coordinator with other roles related to prevention, such as the Safety Resource (Recurso Preventivo). While the HSC is responsible for the overall planning and coordination of site safety, the Safety Resource is usually present during specific high-risk activities (like working at height or in confined spaces) to monitor compliance with safety measures in real time. These two roles are complementary but serve different functions.

If you’re planning a renovation, a new build, or any type of construction project in Estepona, Marbella, Mijas, Sotogrande, or the greater Malaga area, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Munoz Barcia Arquitectos, we bring years of experience and a team of professionals ready to answer your questions and offer free, no-obligation guidance.

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