Construction health and safety culture in South African small and medium enterprises

Abstract

Purpose: Construction health and safety (H&S) culture in small and medium construction enterprises (S 1\11 Es) has received little attention in South Africa, in terms of either research or support for preventive initiatives. Previous research suggests that this sector has serious problems exacerbated by limited access to human, economic and technological resources. Moreover it is now recognized that methods developed specifically for large firms cannot necessarily be transferred to smaller and medium firms, hence the need to investigate the H&S culture in SMEs.

Methodology: This exploratory study is based on descriptive survey using semi-structured and structured questionnaire, and non-probability sampling to give an overview of the characteristics of H&S culture and practices in SMEs firms in the South African construction industry.

Findings: The findings indicate that commitment to H&S, support of health and safety, goal setting and review of H&S, creating structure and process that promote H&S and reviewing leaders' performance/self improvement are part of H&S culture of SMEs. Internal and external communication is also used to address health and safety issues.

Value: The results will be used to make an initial evaluation of SME H&S culture and practices to design and evaluate future interventions and research.