CBPM Conference 2026 · Vol. 2026, Issue 1

An Exploratory Quantitative Survey of Gender-Sensitive Compliance with Construction Health and Safety Regulations in Pakistan

Izaz Ahmad, Nnedimma Umeokafor, and Dinushan Sivaneswaran

Keywords: enforcement gaps, gender-responsive policies, women in construction, worker protection, workplace inclusion

Abstract

Pakistan’s construction industry is widely recognised as one of the country’s most hazardous sectors, characterised by weak and inconsistent enforcement of occupational health and safety (H&S) regulations. Although prior research has examined general safety deficiencies, limited empirical evidence exists on how gender shapes compliance with health and safety regulations, by implication, associated practices. This paper presents a exploratory study that investigates the extent to which compliance with construction H&S regulations in Pakistan incorporates gender-sensitive measures. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 23 construction professionals in Pakistan using convenience and snowball sampling and a structured online questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Fisher’s exact tests. The findings indicate that safety regulations are implemented inconsistently, enforcement is often perceived as unequal, and women are frequently excluded from training. Gender-specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and adequate sanitation facilities are largely absent, while cultural norms, weak enforcement, lack of training, and cost constraints remain key barriers. Inferential statistical analysis shows significant associations between the provision of gender-specific PPE and sanitation facilities and between the observation of gender-specific safety issues and support for gender-sensitive policies. The study concludes that Pakistan’s construction safety system inadequately addresses gender considerations and that regulatory reform, inclusive enforcement, and organisational change are required to promote equitable protection for all workers.