An Evaluation Study of the Impact of Occupational Health and Safety on Productivity in Saudi Arabia Construction Industry

Ahmad Baghdadi^1,

¹Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering and Computing in Al-Qunfudhah, Umm al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Cite this paper:
Ahmad Baghdadi. An Evaluation Study of the Impact of Occupational Health and Safety on Productivity in Saudi Arabia Construction Industry. American Journal of Civil Engineering and Architecture. 2024; 12(2):36-43. doi: 10.12691/ajcea-12-2-3

Abstract

Vision 2030's transformative drive in Saudi Arabia has ignited a construction boom. However, this sector also holds the unfortunate distinction of boasting the highest workplace injury rates. This study delves into the critical link between health and safety (H&S) practices and construction productivity within the Kingdom. It aims to illuminate the significant impact of robust H&S protocols on project productivity, ultimately promoting their adoption across the industry. By employing a mixed-methods approach, 36 key H&S factors are identified and categorised. A comprehensive questionnaire survey, distributed across diverse construction sites throughout Saudi Arabia, garnered insights from 108 industry professionals. Total Importance Index Impact (T.I.I.I.) analysis was then utilised to extract the most impactful factors influencing productivity. The findings unequivocally demonstrate the vital role of H&S in construction success. Companies can unlock significant productivity gains by prioritising improved working conditions and implementing effective H&S management programs. This research offers a compelling case for prioritising worker well-being as a cornerstone for a thriving construction sector within Saudi Arabia.

Keywords:
construction industry health safety productivity saudi arabia

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