Exploring the Barriers to Effective Construction Health and Safety Incident Reporting in Mangaung

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Nhlanhla Nkuna, Fidelis Emuze and Adeyinka Akanbi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64755/YYFI4287

Keywords: Barriers, Construction Safety, Effective Safety Incident Reporting, Mangaung, Safety Programmes

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

This study seeks to investigate the factors that hinder accurate and efficient documentation of on-site health and safety incidents, which ultimately deter the overall effectiveness of health and safety programmes.

METHODOLOGY

A qualitative research approach was employed to gain in-depth insights into the study’s focus. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews across 3 cases with 27 purposefully selected members of on-site project. The data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing the twenty-sevenths participant, suggesting that further interviews would not provide new information.

FINDINGS

The study found that efficient reporting of construction health and safety incidents is hindered by lack of awareness of the importance of reporting all health and safety incidents, fear of victimization, language barriers, deliberate underreporting, and oganisational inefficiencies.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS / IMPLICATIONS

The study was limited to Mangaung, Free State province in South Africa, therefore findings cannot be generalised.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

This research offers empirical evidence on the barriers that impede effective reporting of health and safety incidents on construction sites. The findings serve to guide contractors in identifying and addressing these obstacles, thereby enhancing the reporting process. Improved health and safety incident reporting is expected to yield more accurate and reliable health and safety data, which is essential for the development of effective and responsive health and safety programmes.