Analytical Study of Casualties in the Construction Industry in Nigeria with A View to Provide Remedial Measures: Case Study of Lagos State

Abstract

The construction industry plays a major role in the country’s economic development through its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP), the creation of employment and production of facilities and assets required for production in other sectors. Many people have met their ultimate death in construction sites in Nigeria while others have become permanently crippled from construction-related injuries. Based on the above premise, this paper conducts the analytical study of casualties in the construction industry in Nigeria. Deaths, injuries, near misses, amputees were the factors considered for the study over a period of 15 years (2001-2015). The data collected from the Nigerian Institute of statistics from 2001 to 2015 was analyzed. Causes of deaths and injuries were also considered in the analysis. Overall results obtained show that 2015 has the highest number of wounded people, lives lost, and amputees. A fatality rate 0f 90.8% in 2015 was obtained compared to the remaining 14 years. The following causes of fatality were found to be common: Excavation collapse, trapped by moving parts of machine, electrocution and contact with overhead power lines. Safety procedures were offered.