Analysis of Hazards on Building Construction Sites: A Survey of Construction Artisans in Small and Medium-sized Construction Firms in Ghana

Abstract

Eliminating hazards on construction sites has been a challenge for small and medium-sized contractors. This has contributed to the high rate of incidents that have resulted in injuries, emotional stress, and even fatalities among construction artisans. To avoid these incidences on construction sites, hazards need to be easily identified by these workers. This study sought to analyse hazards that artisans in small and medium-sized construction firms in Ghana are exposed to during project delivery. A cross-sectional design was adopted in this study. In total, one hundred and twenty (120) construction artisans were involved in the study. Data analysis revealed that several hazards exist on construction sites, and experienced workers are more likely to identify hazardous situations on construction sites than inexperienced workers. The study categorized the identified hazards on construction sites into task-induced, site-induced, and human-induced hazards. Most of the identified hazards were related to task-induced hazards. Even though contractors implement measures to eliminate hazards, most of these measures are geared towards making the working space safe rather than addressing hazards that occur during the performance of tasks. It was recommended that teamwork and collaboration among workers be encouraged to ensure safe and hazard-free sites during project execution. It was also recommended that contractors allocate resources to tackle hazards that occur during the performance of tasks and provide psychological training and counselling for their skilled workers.