The Impact of Integrating Occupational Safety and Health into the Pre-Construction Phase of Projects: A Literature Review

Abstract

Construction is a high-risk industry owning to several accidents that take place in construction sites. Fatalities and workplace injuries are a major issue. Construction managers concentrate on profitability as far as cost, quality, and time are concerned. Unless experts end up mindful of safety-related issues, development tasks can never reach their targets. The main aim of this paper is to review the literature that highlights the result of the implementation of occupational health and safety practices in construction sites. The research examines the impact of the implementation on the number of accidents in construction sites and the precautions that should be taken into consideration starting from the pre-construction stage. Previous research suggested that early introduction of occupational safety & health management systems (OHSMS) and elements within the project implementation is an important asset in decision-making. It aims toward the abatement of occupational hazards in the workplace. The paper explores through a literature review the root causes of construction accidents and factors causing risks in construction sites. The research explains OSHMS, and its effects, and how they can be integrated into the pre-construction stage in projects. The impact of the implementation of occupational health and safety practices at construction sites will be discussed as well. The study concluded that due to implementing OHSMS, there is a significant reduction in accidents. In order to improve security and health, safety measures should be included starting from the preparation of contract documents. It is recommended that the managers of top construction companies commit more to safety and health procedures. There is a need to provide funding for the regulatory body that oversees health and safety in the construction industry.