Who is responsible for selecting and constructing protective systems?

The employer or their designee is responsible for selecting and constructing protective systems. This responsibility is foundational because it ensures that those who are formally accountable for site safety and health regulations follow established guidelines and standards. The employer is in a position to assess the specific needs of the project, look at the nature of the work being done, and select appropriate protective measures that comply with safety regulations. This is critical for the safety of all workers on site and contributes to creating an overall safe working environment.

The involvement of a designated person is also vital because this individual is likely to have undergone specific training in safety practices and regulations and is familiar with the safety assessment requirements. This strengthens the integrity of the protective systems implemented on the site, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries due to inadequate safety measures.

In contrast, the other choices present options that lack the necessary authority or accountability to ensure proper safety measures are in place. A licensed contractor on site may have construction expertise, but without the overarching responsibility assigned by the employer, their actions might not align with safety protocols. The project manager may oversee operations but typically focuses on project delivery rather than specific safety systems. Meanwhile, allowing any worker with experience to select protective systems could lead to inconsistencies and a lack of standardized safety