CASE STUDIES ON THE CURRENT SAFETY ISSUE AND WORK BEHAVIOUR OF CONSTRUCTION SITE WORKERS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Vast developing countries like Malaysia are often linked to an excellent economic growth and rapid construction development. Therefore, the operational safety issues have always been a hot topic in the construction sector due to the near misses and accidents are still at an alarming rate. Although various studies and initiatives have been made to reduce the accident rate but in reality, accidents still occur, especially at the operational level. Hence, a study has been conducted to explore the current safety issue and work behaviour of construction site workers in Malaysia. This study was started out by reviewing accidents statistic report published by the Department of Safety and Health (DOSH). Then, literature from various sources mainly; journals, articles, conference papers and books were examine to strengthen the issue. Semi structured interviews were carried out to obtain data from informants who are mainly site safety personnel who are well versed with the construction safety. The finding of this study reveals that near misses, incidents and accidents are still occurring at the operational levels due to poor workers behaviours and attitudes. Despites initially, various approach such as constant supervision, strict safety policies and regulation, implementation of safety clauses and safety training have been conducted by the management to enhance safety awareness among the construction workers.