Workplace safety compliance implementation challenges in apparel supplier firms

Abstract

This research investigates the challenges faced by apparel supplier firms in implementing workplace safety compliance. We develop a framework of the implementation challenges faced by apparel supplier firms, which is supported by theory and literature. To rank the order of critical challenges, we interview senior level management of apparel supplier firms and use an analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The AHP analysis indicates that the most significant challenges in implementing workplace safety compliance relate to ‘cost and financial concerns’ and ‘factory capacity and capability’ issues. The study determines that, to enable effective implementation of workplace safety compliance, apparel supplier firms must strategically manage their factory capacity, and require long-term commitment from international apparel buyers. The research results may be useful for policy makers and for managers of apparel supplier firms in improving factory safety conditions.