Critical risk factors in accident causation in the construction industry- perception of construction

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine risk factors in accidents at construction sites at the Northern Region of Ghana. The research approach used for this study is quantitative approach. The study population consisted of site managers and project managers. Questionnaire and interview guide were used to gather primary data. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 16.0) was used to analyse data. The findings of the revealed that the accident risk factors in construction site were, injury (ranked 1st), health damage (ranked 2nd), lack of training and low level of education or illiteracy ranked 3rd and 4th respectively. The key types of accidents on construction site includes falling from height, slipped, tripped and falling on same level, contact with moving machinery or object being machined, stroked against fixed or stationary objects, trapped by collapsing or overturning object, and injured whilst lifting or carrying objects. The top two killers in construction works are were identified as “fall of person from height” and “contact with electricity or electric discharge”. Based on the findings the study recommends that regular safe working cycle, safety meeting, regular site inspection, safety site work and different awards to motivate employees. It is also recommended that regulations should be put in place by the industry regulating body to ensure safety of workers at the various construction sites in Ghana.