UNSAFE AND UNHEALTHY BEHAVIORAL PRACTICES OF NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION WORKERS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SCALE CONSTRUCTION FIRMS

Abstract

Purpose: The construction industry in Nigeria operates in a multifaceted environment, involving different individuals performing varying tasks. Many of the workers, particularly in small or medium-scale construction firms, often engage in unsafe and unhealthy behavioural practices. This study sought to evaluate the behaviours, and the key factors influencing them in the construction firms in Lagos State, Nigeria.

Methodology: This study employed a survey research method, utilizing a convenience sampling technique to select the target respondents for questionnaire administration. A total number of 192 copies of a questionnaire were distributed, resulting in 84% response rate, as 161 copies were fully completed and returned. The collected data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Findings: The findings of this study confirm the occurrence of unsafe and unhealthy behavioural practices among construction workers in Lagos State, Nigeria. The results identify common unsafe practices such as poor housekeeping, failure to maintain or service machinery, the use of unsafe scaffolding or equipment, neglecting personal protective equipment, and disregarding supervisors' instructions during task execution. Additionally, factors such as drug and alcohol addiction, overconfidence, ignorance, stress, and inexperience were identified as major contributors to such behaviours among construction workers in Lagos State.

Practical Implications: The health and safety of construction workers are of utmost importance to all stakeholders in the construction industry. This study reveals the wide spread nature of the unsafe and unhealthy behaviours among workers, as well as the key factors contributing to them.

Originality/value: The study contributes significantly to understanding the causes of risks, accidents, and injuries on construction sites by identifying unsafe and unhealthy behavioural practices among construction workers. Recognizing these practices and the factors influencing them provides construction stakeholders and shareholders with the rationale to develop sustainable and feasible health and safety measures aimed at eliminating accidents on construction sites.