Workers’ Perception regarding health and safety (H&S) practices in the Nigerian construction industry
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Date
2016-02-02
Authors
Kukoyi, P.O.
Smallwood, J.
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Abstract
Construction projects are reputed for their poor H&S record when compared to other
industries. This can be attributed to an uncontrolled working environment, risk, workers’
behaviour in relation to H&S commitment, cultural and religious beliefs, and uncertainties
inherent in projects. These expose workers, engaged in productive activities on construction
projects, to hazards, and risks, which result in fatalities and other injuries. The aim of this
study is to explore the perceptions of workers regarding H&S and how they relate to their
behaviour on construction sites. The study employed a largely qualitative research
approach. Various construction workers (ironworkers, masons, carpenters, roofers, and
electricians) were interviewed on sites in Lagos State, Nigeria. The findings of the study
reveal that workers view productive activities on construction sites as hazardous and risky.
However, H&S practices are viewed by workers as unimportant. This perception may also
be attributed to their socio-economic realities, cultural and religious beliefs, and inadequate
training. Therefore, it is vital for the government and stakeholders in the construction
industry in Nigeria to establish localised H&S certifications, policies, and awareness
through traditional and religious organisations so as to foster commitment to H&S on
construction sites. Further research is needed to understand the training needs of workers
in the Nigerian construction industry.
Description
Conference paper
Keywords
Health and safety, Nigeria, Perception, workers
Citation
Kukoyi, P.O.; and Smallwood J. (2016). Workers’ Perception regarding health and safety (H&S) practices in the Nigerian construction industry. In A. Windapo (Eds), Proceedings of the 9th CIDB Postgraduate Conference February 2-4, 2016, Cape Town, South Africa.