CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS & PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE · Vol. 2021

Causes of fatality relative to construction site accidents in the KwaZulu-Natal construction industry

Ayodeji Olatunji Aiyetan and Opeyemi Ayobami David

Keywords: Accidents, Construction, fatality, sites, project delivery

Abstract

Construction site is a high-risk threatening environment with respect to safety, due to harsh work conditions attracting different kinds of mishaps. KwaZulu-Natal Province has recorded quite a number of accidents attributed to use of machines during construction activities. Based on this the study was initiated and aims to identify causes of machine accidents in the KZN construction industry. A questionnaire survey was conducted. The data for the study were analysed using correlation analysis. Fifty (50) sites were randomly selected and surveyed. The research is limited to construction firms in the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. The application of the result is limited to firms in the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. Findings indicate that fatalities from machine accidents in construction sites can be avoided through observing safety protocols as expected of site workers and machine operators. Further findings indicate that one of the most significant factors of safety is the ability to have skilled, licensed and experienced plant operators. Based on data analysis, the following recommendations were reach: wearing of protective personal equipment whether a staff or allowed visitor, safety evaluation before commencement of construction activities, constant reminder that safety and health is everyone’s responsibility