In the high-stakes world of infrastructure construction, where every bolt and beam matters, a groundbreaking study has shed light on the often-overlooked human factor: unsafe behavior. Achmad Muhyidin Arifai, an Aerospace Engineering expert from the Trisakti Institute of Transportation and Logistics in Indonesia, has delved into the intricate web of risk factors that contribute to occupational safety challenges in the construction sector. His research, published in the journal ‘Rekayasa Sipil’ (Civil Engineering), focuses on the Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport Main Terminal project in Makassar, a critical infrastructure development that underscores the commercial and operational significance of safety in construction.
The study, involving 99 respondents including workers and project managers, identified seven major contributors to unsafe behavior. These range from neglecting fundamental occupational safety to performing dangerous work without proper training. Arifai’s findings reveal a stark disparity in risk perception between field workers and managerial staff. Field workers, who are on the front lines of construction, exhibit a substantially lower awareness of risks associated with unsafe behaviors. This disconnect could have profound implications for the energy sector, where infrastructure projects are often complex and high-risk.
Arifai emphasizes the need for targeted training and stricter safety enforcement. “The data clearly shows that a one-size-fits-all approach to safety training is insufficient,” he says. “We need to tailor our strategies to address the specific risks that workers perceive and the behaviors that put them at risk.” This tailored approach could revolutionize safety strategies in the energy sector, where the stakes are high and the margins for error are slim.
The study also highlights the importance of better equipment maintenance and fostering a strong safety culture. Arifai notes, “Leadership commitment and continuous communication are key to creating a culture where safety is not just a priority, but a way of life.” This cultural shift could have far-reaching effects, not just in construction, but in any industry where safety is paramount.
The implications of this research are vast. For the energy sector, where infrastructure projects are often complex and high-risk, understanding and mitigating unsafe behaviors could mean the difference between a successful project and a catastrophic failure. By addressing the root causes of unsafe behavior, companies can enhance their safety management systems, reduce accidents, and ultimately, save lives.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, so too must its approach to safety. Arifai’s research, published in ‘Rekayasa Sipil’ (Civil Engineering), provides a roadmap for enhancing occupational safety management. It calls for a more nuanced understanding of risk perception and a commitment to fostering a culture of safety from the ground up. This could shape future developments in the field, driving innovation in safety strategies and setting new standards for occupational safety in the energy sector and beyond.