Optimizing security in architecture by design. Risk prevention in construction with a Lean perspective

Abstract

The construction industry remains one of the most dangerous in terms of occupational health and safety, with high rates of accidents and occupational diseases. Despite the efforts made, security is still managed reactively during the execution phase, leaving room for improved risk prevention. This study addresses the need to integrate safety from the earliest phases of architectural design, leveraging approaches such as Lean Construction and Prevention through Design (PtD). The purpose of this article is to evaluate how the implementation of these approaches can improve safety in architectural projects in Uruguay. To this end, interviews, surveys and observations were carried out in architecture studios, as well as curricular practices with architecture and graduate students. The results reveal that the adoption of Lean Construction and PtD reduces accidents by up to 20%, although there are economic, cultural and training barriers to their widespread implementation. These findings suggest that early safety integration not only reduces occupational risks but also optimizes operational efficiency. Going forward, the adoption of technologies such as Building Information Modelling and increased safety training are crucial to consolidate these preventive approaches in the construction industry.