A systemic archetype for enhancing occupational safety in road construction projects through worker behavior

Abstract

Occupational health and safety (OHS) challenges persistently plague road construction endeavours. The pivotal role of worker behaviour in influencing these challenges is widely acknowledged. Nevertheless, a comprehensive exploration of how OHS issues manifest in road construction due to worker behaviour has been conspicuously absent. Within the context of India’s National Highway expansion project, this study investigates the key factors associated with worker behaviour that contribute to accidents and presents a systemic archetype for ameliorating worker behaviour and, consequently, OHS. Data sourced from surveys and robust statistical analyses form the foundation of this research, with the System Dynamics modelling (SD) framework employed to construct the archetype. Furthermore, the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) serves as the theoretical underpinning for this study. The findings underscore that accidents are often precipitated by a dearth of knowledge and inadequate training regarding safety codes and practices, which consequently leads to their violation. However, an investment in knowledge dissemination and comprehensive training to heighten awareness, encourage adherence, and facilitate implementation of safety standards and practices could markedly enhance OHS within road construction projects. This study posits that fostering appropriate worker behaviour rooted in knowledge and training, along with promoting the rigorous enforcement of safety codes and practices, stands as a crucial strategy for preventing accidents in road construction. Consequently, it is argued that knowledge acquisition and training should be recognized as pivotal leverage points for enhancing OHS through the prism of worker behaviour in road construction projects.