Your question reminds me of an article I read where someone asked an AI how to make a million dollars with only $100.00 to start with.
I decided to test the idea myself, but with a twist. I first told the AI of my values and morals and why I held those beliefs. Then I asked the question and requested that how it answered was consistent to the foundational logic I held. (Not that it matters here, but it said I should make seed paper)
Example: I can make a very large and precisely accurate solar concentrator very cheap. It is similar to your issue. If safety is not properly addressed up front, then the result is guaranteed to permanently blind any eye it accidently it hits instantly. It becomes obvious when 2x4 instantly explodes on fire the very same moment the concentrated light hits it. Now after taking the time to make the prototype it is clear that time was wasted.
My point here is that if you make saving money the most important thing and then only consider safety later then you are already spinning your wheels and wasting energy.