Why safety should be top of mind in every phase of water and infrastructure Projects

A good example of a project where safety is top of mind is the widening of the A20 motorway. “INNOCY became involved during the design phase,” says Midas Luijer, Safety Expert at INNOCY. “Our role is to assess design decisions through a safety lens and determine their impact on later phases. We also ask: is the choice maintainable in a safe way, and is it safe for the (road) user and the surrounding environment? By considering safety as early as possible, the impact you can make is much greater. Later, we are also the ones on-site during the execution phase - boots in the mud - checking whether occupational and construction safety are properly managed and whether the agreed safety measures are being followed.”

Labour Inspectorate

Another example of how INNOCY’s safety expertise is applied is in water safety projects. “As part of the national dike reinforcement program, we advise water boards on how to fulfill their legal safety responsibilities,” Midas explains. “The Dutch Working Conditions Act clearly outlines the safety obligations of project owners. This includes the Safety & Health (V&G) plan that maps out all project risks, but also the construction, technical and organizational (BTO) decisions that affect safety and health. If an incident occurs and a design choice wasn’t properly justified, that can be seen as a shortcoming, and the Dutch Labour Inspectorate may hold the client accountable. We focus not only on legal compliance but also on strengthening the safety culture within project teams, staying alert to signals and asking the tough questions.”

“We take an integrated approach to safety in infrastructure, water and rail projects.”

Midas Luijer, Safety Expert at INNOCY

Maintenance phase

INNOCY provides safety expertise across all project phases and is a long-time partner for the Maeslant storm surge barrier. “While the barrier was constructed some time ago, it still needs to be maintained safely and effectively,” says Oscar Ewaart, Safety Expert at INNOCY. “A dedicated contractor has been appointed to perform routine maintenance and inspections. We created the V&G plan on behalf of the client. This plan outlines potential risks and hazards, responsibilities, coordination, emergency procedures and monitoring - ensuring the safety and health of all personnel involved.”

On behalf of the client, Oscar also conducts safety observations to ensure the plan is being followed. “If not, we address the issue directly, document it, and work with the contractor to start an improvement process.”

Integrated safety

INNOCY often takes on the role of integrated safety consultant in many projects. “We approach safety as a comprehensive element in infrastructure, water, and rail projects,” says Midas. “This includes not only planning and execution but also advising on contract requirements, risk control measures and safety for the surrounding environment.”

Oscar adds: “And at project completion, we also ensure an up-to-date V&G dossier is delivered. Think of it as a safety manual for the asset, detailing all safety provisions that impact safe working practices, and clearly highlighting residual risks - so they can be addressed during future maintenance or upgrades.”