Abstract:
Purpose – This study attempts to identify a simple and efficient framework to be implemented in the
Sri Lankan construction industry to inculcate a “safe and healthy” working environment for its
workforce.
Design/methodology/approach – The occupational safety and health (OSH) management
strategies that could be implemented in the construction sites were identified through a
comprehensive literature survey and a pilot survey. A questionnaire survey was carried out among
the safety and health (S&H) experts to explore the most effective OSH management strategies and
thereafter to derive OSH mechanisms to promote the safer and healthy environment in the
construction sites. Success of these mechanisms in the local industry was analyzed and was
subsequently used to develop the OSH management framework.
Findings – A total of 35 significant OSH management strategies, unsafe and unhealthy factors as
risk factors for fatal and non-fatal situations were identified. A further ten OSH management
mechanisms were established as adequate safety supervision, site environment, controlling the
workers’ safe and healthy behaviour, centralized OSH management unit, resources and insurance
policies, management commitment, supportive devices, OSH documentation, OSH education and
awareness, and OSH committee. Further, these ten mechanisms were used to establish the OSH
framework to be implemented in Sri Lankan construction sites.
Originality/value – OSH management in the Sri Lankan construction industry can be enhanced by
implementing the proposed OSH management framework.
Citation:
De Silva, N., & Wimalaratne, P. (n.d.). OSH management framework for workers at construction sites in Sri Lanka. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 19(4), 369–392. https://doi.org/10.1108/09699981211237094