ASSESSMENT OF CONSTRUCTION SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT IN HIGH RISE BUILDING IN THE CASE OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

The construction industry is an important part of the economy in many countries and is often seen as a driver of economic growth especially in developing countries. Owing to it’s relatively labor intensive nature, construction works provide opportunities for employment for a wide range of people skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled. Despite its importance, construction industry is considered risky with frequent and high accidents rates and ill health problems to workers, practitioners and end users particularly in the current high rising building construction sites. However, knowledge on how health and safety risks are managed on high rising construction sites is limited in Ethiopia. This study therefore, aims to find out the current practice of health and safety management in high rising building construction firms in Addis Ababa. The research used qualitative and quantitative research approach. Data was collected from high rising construction company project managers, site engineers, safety engineers, residential managers and foremen. The collected data was presented using charts and tables and analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequency and percentages. The results of the study revealed that objects falling from a height, workers falling from scaffolding during construction and stairways and ladders collapse are the major causes for fatal individual injuries as well as death in high rising construction sites. The study also explored that health and safety management in high rising building construction site not satisfactory. The major predicaments and challenges facing the high rising building construction sector health and safety management are inadequate health and safety orientation and training, low enforcement of existing rules and regulations issued related to construction safety and health management in the country, lack of top management commitment and support to health and safety management in construction sector and complexity of buildings design and structure. In line with the major findings, strengthening the enforcement of the country construction health and safety rules and regulation by safety and health agency and local authorities, safety first as a motto in construction firm and management commitment and support for health and safety in high rising building construction site were among the recommendations forwarded.