Under CSI-based contract administration principles (which align with typical General Conditions such as AIA A201), site safety is primarily the responsibility of the Contractor. The Contractor:
Is solely responsible for construction means, methods, techniques, sequences, and procedures.
Must plan, maintain, and supervise all construction safety programs and precautions in connection with the work.
Must ensure that workers and the public are protected from hazards arising from construction operations.
The architect/engineer (A/E) is not responsible for construction safety; their role is limited to observing the work for general conformance with the contract documents, not directing means, methods, or safety programs. Likewise, OSHA sets safety regulations but does not manage project-specific safety programs; compliance and implementation rest with the Contractor.
Therefore, Option D – Contractor is correct.
Why the other options are incorrect:
A. Architect/engineer – The A/E does not control means and methods or safety programs; CSI and standard General Conditions explicitly state that the A/E’s services do not include responsibility for jobsite safety.
B. OSHA – OSHA establishes regulations and enforcement, but it does not plan or supervise each project’s safety measures; that duty is contractually on the Contractor.
C. Owner’s inspector – An owner’s representative/inspector may observe and report, but does not take over the Contractor’s legal responsibility for implementing and supervising safety.
Key CSI-Oriented References (titles only, no links):
CSI Project Delivery Practice Guide – sections on Roles and Responsibilities during Construction.
CSI Construction Specifications Practice Guide – discussion of General Conditions and contractor responsibilities.
CSI CDT Body of Knowledge – “Construction Phase: Responsibilities of Owner, Contractor, and A/E.”
