Factors influencing the current health and safety of the workers in the construction industry of Uganda: case study of Kampala district

Abstract

The construction industry of Uganda is affected by many setbacks in as far as occupational safety and health is concerned. It is considered one of the most dangerous industries on the basis of the frequency of accidents that occur. This research paper aimed at providing the social and administrative factors that influence the health and safety of construction workers. The main population study was construction workers in Uganda specifically those in Kampala district. A sample of 76 construction workers from the ongoing construction activities like the recent construction of Nankeera complex along Buganda road, renovation of the Ernest and Young building, renovation of plot 45 in Bank of Uganda among many other projects were interviewed. The data was collected using a questionnaire, analyzed at a univariate level using Microsoft excel where frequency tables and percentages were used to give a summary of the distribution of responses and further analyzed at a bivariate level using Pearson chi squared test to establish the level of dependence of health and safety on the various independent variables. The results showed that risk awareness, close supervision and provision of safety training and equipment are significant in influencing the health and safety of workers. This study recommended that employers should get more involved in the health and safety of their workers by ensuring strict rules on dress code so that every worker is dressed fully in protective gear at the work place among others.