INTEGRATED SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: EMPOWERING WORKERS TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic approach to incorporate worker input and self-assessments into the safety management system in construction, enhancing safety and wellbeing. Traditional safety management systems primarily have focused on compliance and reaction to safety hazards. The proposed approach integrates the concept of a “safe employee” and the “I-SAFE ME model” (a self-assessment tool and measures introduced in this paper), emphasizing workers' proactive participation and accountability in safety planning and compliance, into a broader integrated safety management system (ISMS). The I-SAFE ME model allows workers to self-assess factors impacting their safety, health, assigned tasks suitability, and readiness for work. This shift will improve workplace safety, worker satisfaction, wellbeing, and project delivery outcomes, encouraging a culture of shared responsibility and teamwork. The proposed approach extends the concept of safety beyond hazard identification and control to include broader health and wellbeing aspects, often overlooked in traditional safety management practices, by encompassing various project elements regarding construction workers. The expected outcome is to fill the existing construction safety policies and procedures gap and support adherence to OSHA regulations and standards.