The obligation
A designer's duty is qualified by what is reasonably practicable, weighing likelihood, harm, knowledge, available controls and cost.
Relevant matters include the likelihood of the hazard or risk, the degree of harm, knowledge about it and ways to control it, their availability and suitability, and whether the cost is grossly disproportionate to the risk. Prevailing design standards and the hazards and risks known when the structure was designed will be considered. Where a designer is asked about a building designed years ago, their duty is limited to the design elements they detailed or specified, not those of others.
- What
- A designer's duty is qualified by what is reasonably practicable, weighing likelihood, harm, knowledge, available controls and cost.
- Source
- safeworkaustralia.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
What 'Reasonably Practicable' Means for Designers is a WHS requirement set out in Safe design of structures (FEDERAL). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (FEDERAL). The relevant provision is Safe design of structures > Reasonably Practicable.
What does this WHS obligation require?
What 'Reasonably Practicable' Means for Designers is a WHS obligation under Safe design of structures (FEDERAL). In short, A designer's duty is qualified by what is reasonably practicable, weighing likelihood, harm, knowledge, available controls and cost.
What changed recently?
What 'Reasonably Practicable' Means for Designers was last updated on 19 October 2026.