Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 9
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.3.1 Overview.. 14
2.3.2 Importance of Construction Technology.. 14
2.3.3 Challenges in Workers' Safety Performance.. 15
2.3.4 Role of Building Information Modeling (BIM). 15
2.3.5 Utilization of Drones for Site Monitoring.. 15
2.3.6 Enhancing Worker Safety Through Wearable Sensors. 16
2.3.7 Integration of Virtual Reality (VR) for Training and Simulation.. 16
2.3.8 Implementing Robotics for Hazardous Tasks. 16
2.3.9 Embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Predictive Analytics. 17
2.3.10 Promoting a Culture of Safety and Collaboration.. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 18
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 20
Chapter Three.. 21
Research Methodology.. 21
3.1 Introduction.. 21
3.2 Research Design.. 21
3.3 Study Population.. 21
3.4 Sampling Techniques. 22
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 22
3.5.1 Surveys. 22
3.5.2 Interviews. 23
3.5.3 Observations. 23
3.6 Data Analysis Procedures. 23
3.6.1 Quantitative Analysis. 23
3.6.2 Qualitative Analysis. 24
3.6.3 Triangulation.. 24
3.7 Ethical Considerations. 24
3.8 Limitations of the Study.. 24
3.9 Summary.. 25
CHAPTER FOUR.. 26
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 26
4.1 Preamble.. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 30
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 30
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
Discussion of Findings. 44
CHAPTER FIVE.. 46
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1 Summary.. 46
5.2 Conclusion.. 48
5.3 Recommendations. 48
REFERENCES.. 50
Research Questionnaire titled 'CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY AND WORKERS SAFETY PERFORMANCE (A CASE STUDY OF HSE DEPARTMENT, HENSEK INTEGRATED SERVICES).' 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In the contemporary construction industry, technological advancements have revolutionized the way projects are planned, executed, and completed. From drones for site surveying to Building Information Modeling (BIM) for enhanced project visualization, these innovations have significantly improved efficiency and productivity. However, amidst these advancements, ensuring worker safety performance remains paramount. The integration of technology not only streamlines processes but also presents opportunities to mitigate hazards and enhance safety protocols, ultimately fostering a culture of safety within construction environments. Smith, J. (2023).
In recent years, the construction sector has witnessed a surge in the adoption of wearable technology aimed at monitoring workers' health and safety. Devices such as smart helmets equipped with sensors for detecting hazardous environments or fatigue levels contribute to proactive risk management. Furthermore, the utilization of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in safety training programs provides immersive learning experiences, allowing workers to simulate hazardous scenarios and develop crucial safety skills in a controlled environment. These technologies not only enhance training effectiveness but also cultivate a safety-conscious mindset among workers. Brown, A. et al. (2022).
Despite the promising prospects of technological interventions in ensuring worker safety, challenges persist in their implementation. Factors such as cost barriers, technological literacy among workers, and regulatory compliance pose significant hurdles. Nonetheless, collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and technology developers are essential to overcome these challenges and foster widespread adoption of safety-enhancing technologies. By prioritizing investment in research and development, as well as fostering a supportive regulatory framework, the construction industry can leverage technology to create safer work environments and uphold the well-being of its workforce. Johnson, R. (2024).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite significant advancements in construction technology, the industry continues to grapple with persistent challenges in ensuring optimal worker safety performance. One prominent issue revolves around the integration of new technologies into existing workflows and safety protocols. While innovations such as drones, wearables, and virtual simulations hold immense potential for mitigating hazards and enhancing safety training, their adoption remains uneven across construction firms. This disjointed implementation often leads to gaps in safety practices and hinders the realization of the full benefits offered by these technologies (Jones & Smith, 2023). Moreover, the rapid pace of technological development exacerbates the challenge of keeping abreast of emerging tools and techniques, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources for research and training (Li & Liu, 2022).
Another critical aspect of the problem lies in the disparities in technological literacy and access among construction workers. While younger generations may be more adept at using digital tools, there exists a significant portion of the workforce, particularly older or less educated individuals, who may struggle to adapt to technological changes. This digital divide not only impedes the effective utilization of safety-enhancing technologies but also exacerbates safety risks on construction sites. Additionally, concerns surrounding data privacy and cybersecurity further complicate the integration of technology into safety management systems, as firms must navigate regulatory requirements and ensure the secure handling of sensitive information (Smith et al., 2024).
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Construction Technology and Workers Safety Performance. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of wearable technology in reducing fall risks.
- To investigate the impact of Building Information Modeling (BIM) on hazard identification and mitigation.
- To analyze the influence of digital communication platforms on safety incident reporting and response times.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent do wearable fall detection devices with real-time alerts reduce the incidence of falls among construction workers compared to traditional safety protocols?
- Does the implementation of BIM software during the planning phase of construction projects lead to a decrease in safety hazards identified and addressed during the construction process?
- How does the use of cloud-based communication platforms for safety reporting affect the timeliness and effectiveness of response to safety incidents on construction sites compared to traditional paper-based reporting methods?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between Construction Technology and Workers Safety Performance.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Building Technology sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to HSE department, Hensek Integrated Services. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
