Safety in the maritime construction site: Capturing lessons learned

Abstract

The aim of this research is to examine the safety culture of the United States Army Corps of Engineers staff and contractors working on marine construction projects including dredging, beach nourishment, breakwaters, and jetties. A literature review was performed to understand existing issues and to develop a research methodology for the study. Qualitative data research was used to uncover significant themes and help gain a deeper understanding of safety related issues. Twelve construction professions were interviewed using semi-structured interview format. The data was analysed using thematic analysis techniques with an inductive approach to draw conclusions. The results were used to conclude that issues causing safety accidents in the maritime construction sector can be broadly attributed to unforeseen conditions, training, complacency, lack of support of safety and crew unpreparedness. Data from the interviews also indicates ways to improve maritime construction can be broadly categorised under training, improved communication, improved preparation and organisational support for safety.