Study the limitations to implement OHSAS 18001 as a regulation in Sri Lankan construction industry: contractor's perspective

Abstract

The Construction industry, being one of the fast-growing sectors in the world, contributes high percentages for gross domestic product (GDP) in most countries. However, as a high labour-intensive and hazardous industry, many accidents are reported annually both in developed and developing countries. Within the context of Sri Lanka, many fatal construction accidents happen each year, but most are not reported due to various reasons. In the contractor’s side in construction, numerous shortcomings prevail in Occupational health and safety (OHS) practices. The internationally recognised and best practising OHSAS 18001, known as an effective tool to enhance OHS, is still being a general standard under local context. Therefore, this research attempts to study the limitations to implement OHSAS 18001 as a regulation in Sri Lanka, aiming to improve OHS at the site level. A comprehensive literature survey was conducted to collect the existing knowledge regarding the subject matter, using sources such as OHSAS 18001, past research studies, and acts and policies in other countries. An industry-wide questionnaire survey was performed to collect information on the current practice of Occupational Health & Safety with respect to the Contractor in Sri Lankan construction industry and to identify difficulties/possibilities to implement OHSAS 18001 standard as a regulation in the local construction industry, with special reference to Contractor party. The survey was limited to the construction professionals in the construction industry and consisted of Senior General Managers, Project Managers, Architects, Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, and Safety officers. The results revealed that OHSAS 18001 could be implemented based on Contractor’s perspective. However, top management commitment, Cost, Awareness, Training & Development, Cultural/Attitude barriers, Academic qualifications related to health and safety in Sri Lanka, and Expertise knowledge in the sector were initialised as the key factors that profoundly influence to a comprehensive OHS management system.