Conceptual construction safety archetypes to improve worker behaviour to improve safety in road construction projects

Abstract

Occupational health and safety (OHS) in a dynamic work environment of road constructionprojects are influenced by worker behaviour. Although several studies have been made by using analytical methods the mechanisms that underline the occurrence of accidents and improve safety concerning worker behaviour at road construction sites have not been explored explicitly in developing countries. Therefore, using the context of road construction projects in developing countries, the study explored causal feedback relationships among different worker behaviour factors and develop a conceptual safety archetype to examine the mechanisms that cause the occurrence of accidents and also improve safety. A conceptual System Dynamic (SD) Modelling method premised upon the Systems Analysis approach was used. Findings suggest that worker behaviour, and their attitude towards safety codes and practices, are critical for the occurrence or prevention of accidents in the construction of roads. Lack of knowledge and awareness regarding safety codes and practices combined with a poor attitude leading to the violation of safety codes and practices can lead to the occurrence of accidents. So, knowledge and training to improve the awareness concerning safety codes and practices, would improve their attitude and assist in the effective implementation of the safety codes and practices as the leverage points would enable the enhancement of OHS on account of worker behaviour in road construction projects.