Exploring the Factors and Measures to Improve Safety in Road Construction in India

Abstract

Accidents at road construction sites are pervasive in India. Therefore, using data obtained from construction sites on a national highway in India, the major factors that contribute to the occurrence of accidents were explored in this study and various strategic and operational interventions that could be implemented to improve safety in road construction were established. A survey was conducted among the relevant stakeholders to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Inferential statistical methods, including ordinal regression modelling, were used to analyse quantitative data and narrative and interpretive methods were used to analyse qualitative data. Based on the results, it was found that several factors, related to four important aspects, contribute significantly to the occurrence of accidents, including site conditions, traffic conditions, behaviour and attitude of construction workers, and information and training. It was established that operational interventions, such as the installation of early warning systems, mandatory use of safety equipment and gear, and signage and control at road construction sites can reduce accidents significantly. In addition, strategic interventions, such as implementing a specific road construction safety policy, creating awareness among the stakeholders and including the cost of health and safety in the project cost are vital. However, it was found that operational interventions are more influential than strategic interventions in the context of safety on road construction sites.