Management of Health and Safety Risks on Sites During Construction Process: Case Study of Private Developments in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Construction health and safety is a significant global concern, particularly in underdeveloped nations where the industry faces numerous hazards. Despite various safety initiatives and governmental programs, accidents and unsafe working conditions persist, especially in countries like Kenya, which experiences extensive construction activity. This study explores the management of health and safety risks on construction sites, focusing on private developments in Kiambu County, Kenya. Utilizing a hybrid research methodology that incorporates both numerical and descriptive analyses, this research aims to address the pressing health and safety challenges that construction workers face. The findings underscore the critical need for construction firms to continually update their health and safety policies to align with the actual conditions on sites. A robust health and safety policy, particularly in training programs, is essential for effective risk management. The study outlines several key areas for further investigation, including the impact of such policies on reducing workplace accidents and enhancing safe working conditions. The study's objectives include evaluating the existing health and safety policies at construction sites in Kiambu County and assessing the implementation and effectiveness of these policies in managing health and safety risks. The literature review contributes insights into best practices in construction health and safety management and identifies key variables such as policy effectiveness, training quality, and accident rates. Grounded in systems theory, the research views construction sites as complex systems where various elements interact, providing a theoretical framework for the analysis. The research methodology employs a mixed-methods approach, combining exploratory and descriptive strategies to capture a comprehensive view of the health and safety landscape in Kiambu County. The target population includes construction workers and site managers, with a stratified sampling technique ensuring representation across different construction sites. Individual construction sites within the county serve as the unit of analysis. Conclusively, construction site health and safety must be managed throughout the process. The construction industry's exposure to hazardous materials underscores the necessity for proactive worker safety precautions.

Areas suggested for further study include investigating the long-term effects of safety training on accident rates and analyzing the economic impacts of improved health and safety standards on construction project budgets.