Building safety act Principal Designer

Helping you meet your duties in higher-risk buildings — with clarity and control.

The Building Safety Act has introduced a new era of accountability for those involved in the design and construction of higher-risk residential buildings. Among its many changes, it introduces the role of the Principal Designer (BSA) — someone responsible for coordinating safety during the design phase and maintaining the “golden thread” of information.

At LiftX, we take on this role specifically for lift and vertical transport systems — ensuring that your project meets both the spirit and letter of the new legislation.

What does the Building Safety Act require?

Under the Act, lift systems in higher-risk buildings must be planned with whole-life safety in mind — from early concept through to occupation and beyond. That means identifying and mitigating design risks, ensuring maintainability, and documenting decisions in a way that’s transparent and traceable.

As specialist consultants, we make sure the lift side of your building safety strategy is robust, compliant, and clearly documented.

Where we fit in

Principal Designer (BSA) Role

We’re typically appointed as Principal Designer (BSA) for lift works on major refurbishment projects, especially where multiple designers require tight coordination.

Collaborative Approach

We work closely with you, the client team, and contractors to ensure the lift is treated as a safety-critical system—not an afterthought.

Planning from Day One

From the outset, we make sure the lift element is properly planned, coordinated, and documented as part of the overall safety strategy.

Seamless Integration with CDM

If needed, we’ll advise how our role aligns with CDM Principal Designer duties—avoiding duplication and satisfying Building Safety Regulator expectations.

For developers, housing providers, and safety leads

We support clients who want to stay ahead of their duties and avoid the reputational and regulatory risks that come from falling short. Our approach is proportionate, practical, and always grounded in the technical realities of lift design, installation, and operation.

Managing a higher-risk building under the new Building Safety Act?

We’ll explain how lift systems fit into the golden thread — and how to stay compliant without overcomplicating it.
enquiry@liftxconsult.com

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LiftX Consult is a trading name of
Cook and Associates Lift Consultants Limited.

Regis House, 42b Homesdale Road, Bromley, Kent, BR2 9LD
Email: enquiry@liftxconsult.com
Tel: 020 8460 9991