In the high-stakes world of construction, where every project is a balancing act of time, cost, and safety, a new study is shedding light on the often-overlooked hazards of foundation work. Tri Susanto, a researcher from the Civil and Planning Department at Universitas Diponegoro in Indonesia, has conducted a comprehensive literature review that could reshape how the industry approaches occupational safety and health (OHS) in foundation projects.
Susanto’s research, published in the journal *Rekayasa Sipil* (translated to English as “Civil Engineering”), identifies 11 potential hazards in foundation work, with five standing out as predominant risks. “Being struck by construction materials, being impacted or ensnared by heavy machinery, falling into dig sites, sustaining puncture or laceration injuries from sharp objects, and experiencing ocular ailments due to exposure to materials or dust—these are the critical risks that need immediate attention,” Susanto explains.
The study, which reviewed 100 articles from the Google Scholar and Crossref databases, highlights the pressing need for effective risk management in foundation work. “The findings affirm that foundation work presents a considerable hazard, necessitating the implementation of risk control hierarchy,” Susanto emphasizes. This hierarchy includes elimination, engineering methods, administrative measures, enhancement of worker safety behavior, and adaptation to contextual dynamics.
For the energy sector, where construction projects are often large-scale and complex, the implications are significant. “Understanding and mitigating these risks can lead to safer work environments, reduced downtime, and lower insurance costs,” says Susanto. “This is not just about protecting workers; it’s about protecting the bottom line.”
The study’s findings suggest that a proactive approach to OHS can fortify the safety culture in construction projects, ultimately benefiting both workers and project stakeholders. “By implementing these risk control measures, we can create a safer, more efficient construction environment,” Susanto concludes.
As the industry grapples with the challenges of modern construction, Susanto’s research offers a timely reminder of the importance of safety in foundation work. With the energy sector’s growing demand for infrastructure, the insights from this study could shape future developments in the field, ensuring that projects are not only completed on time and within budget but also with a commitment to worker safety.