SAFETY FIRST: HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKPLACE SAFETY

Abstract

The construction industry, a ubiquitous sector worldwide, plays a pivotal role in job creation and addressing unemployment. However, it also ranks among the most perilous occupations, marked by a history of accidents leading to worker injuries and fatalities. This study investigates the imperative of ensuring a safe and healthy working environment for construction workers, encompassing their physical, physiological, and psychological well-being, collectively referred to as Work Health and Safety (WHS). Governments worldwide have enacted legislation to safeguard construction worker safety, yet work-related accidents continue to plague the industry. In 2014 alone, over 73,000 injuries were documented in the American construction sector, underscoring the severity of the issue. This article examines the multifaceted consequences of workplace accidents, including economic ramifications, legal implications, ethical considerations, and the impact on workforce motivation. By delving into these dimensions, it sheds light on the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and a comprehensive WHS framework within the construction business.