1

The construction industry is one of the world's most dangerous

industrial sectors, with at least 108 thousand workers killed on
site every year, representing 30% of all occupational fatal
injuries.
In developing countries, the risks associated with construction
work may be 3 to 6 times greater.
The construction sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in
many developing countries, including Ethiopia, which plays a
crucial role in laying the foundation for other industries and
contributing to job creation.
However, the industry is also marked by hazards,
complications, and high incidences of accidents and injuries.
Addressing safety issues is essential for Ethiopia's construction 2
sector to grow sustainably.
 Introduction
Workplace hazards include sharp edges, falling objects, flying
sparks, chemicals, and noise.
Employers must protect their employees from these hazards by
controlling them at their source.
Occupational health and safety is crucial for promoting physical,
mental, and social wellbeing.
However, many workers worldwide suffer from psychological
stress and overwork, which can lead to insomnia, depression,
fatigue, burn-out syndromes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Only 5-10% of workers in developing countries and 20-50% of
workers in industrial countries have access to adequate
occupational health services.
3
The construction industry is one of the world's most dangerous
industrial sectors, with at least 108 thousand workers killed on
site every year, representing 30% of all occupational fatal
injuries.
In developing countries, the risks associated with construction
work may be 3 to 6 times greater.
The construction sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in
many developing countries, including Ethiopia, which plays a
crucial role in laying the foundation for other industries and
contributing to job creation.
However, the industry is also marked by hazards,
complications, and high incidences of accidents and injuries.
Addressing safety issues is essential for Ethiopia's construction 4
sector to grow sustainably.
 The Construction Industry in Ethiopia

Ethiopia's construction industry, with a rich history dating back

to ancient times, has played a pivotal role in the country's
development. The railway network in the early 20th century
significantly enhanced transportation and stimulated economic
growth.

5
Today, Ethiopia's construction sector contributes to
infrastructure development and urbanization, creating
employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
The industry has increasingly focused on sustainable and
environmentally friendly practices to support the country's
development goals. Collaboration between government and
private entities has led to the introduction of modern
construction techniques and technologies. However, the
industry faces challenges such as the need for skilled labor and
technological advancements.
To address these challenges, Ethiopia invests in vocational
training programs and partnerships with global construction
firms. The industry is also involved in regional projects,
solidifying Ethiopia's position as an emerging construction hub 6

in the East African region.

 Background of the Study

In Ethiopia, the construction industry faces increasing accidents

and fatalities due to the construction of high-rise buildings.
Despite its benefits, the construction industry is considered a
high-risk sector, exposing workers to injury, disability, death,
and other health problems.
Occupational safety and health (OSH) is crucial to ensure the
industry does not pose a direct threat to the public and workers
around construction sites.
Various studies have assessed OSH management in Ethiopia,
finding that foreign contractors have a relatively better practice
than local first-class contractors.

7
 Background of the Study

In Addis Ababa, many accidents and health problems occurred

due to poor OSH management practices.
To minimize accidents and fatalities, construction company
management, workers, and the community need to be familiar
with their country's applicable laws.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has long sought to
develop and promote conventions, recommendations, and
codes of practice to improve the deaths of construction workers
and the general public.
A precise law and enforcement practice that follows ILO
Conventions, Recommendations, and Codes of Practice is
essential for the management of the industry.
8
 Statement of the Problem

Ethiopia's construction sector faces increasing accidents and fatalities

due to inadequate safety measures and poor enforcement by employers
and authorities.
Work-related illnesses, disabilities, and fatalities are major issues,
causing missed work and decreased production.
Ethiopia is a signatory to national and international laws requiring
employers to comply with safety requirements, but these rights are not
respected.
Employers need a safety policy, rigorous inspections, and continuous
improvement to ensure safe working conditions.
The loss of workers through injury or illness can cause significant
disruption, cost, and damage to morale, productivity, and reputation.

9
 Objectives of the Study

General Objectives
The general objective of the study is to investigate health and safety practices
in building construction in Addis Ababa, the case of Lemi Kura Sub City.
Specific Objectives
The specific objectives of the study to address the general objective stated
above are:
To assess the availability and applicability of construction companies' health
and safety manuals/policies.
To determine whether responsible person(s) for health and safety are
appointed by construction companies.
To assess the provision and use of PPE and safety tools in selected
construction sites in the sub-city.
To know whether contractors report their health and safety plan and its
implementation to the relevant government body. 10
 Significance of the Study

This study enhances understanding of OSH laws in Ethiopian contexts,

addressing legal issues and reducing construction site accidents. It can
be used by contractors, consultants, and authorities to create training
materials, guidelines, and modify existing construction safety laws.

11
 Organization of the project

The project is divided into four chapters: literature review, research

design, results analysis, discussion, and conclusion, focusing on SH in
construction, OSH practices, and legislation.

12
 Literature Review

The ILO Code of Practice 2022 Revised on Safety and Health in Construction provides
practical guidance for public and private sectors in promoting prevention, protecting
workers from workplace hazards, preventing or reducing occupational injuries, diseases,
and dangerous occurrences, ensuring compensation for injured workers, ensuring
appropriate planning, procurement, design, and implementation of construction projects,
formulating and implementing coherent national policies on occupational safety and
health (OSH), promoting consultation and cooperation between governments, employers,
workers, and business operations, providing guidance on the roles, obligations,
responsibilities, duties, and rights of all actors, improving OSH risk management, and
improving OSH knowledge and competence in construction.
Occupational safety and health is a multidisciplinary activity aimed at promoting the
health of workers by eliminating hazardous factors and conditions, enhancing their
physical, mental, and social well-being, and developing sustainable work environments
and organizations. The ILO/WHO defines occupational health as the promotion and
maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental, and social well-being of workers
in all occupations.
Occupational health professionals include engineers, environmental health practitioners,
chemists, toxicologists, doctors, nurses, and safety professionals. 13
 Literature Review

The focus is on three objectives:

maintaining and promoting workers' health and working capacity,
improving the working environment to be conducive to safety and health, and
developing work organizations and working cultures that support health and
safety at work.
The main focus of health and safety is on preventing people from being harmed
at work, by taking the right precautions and providing a satisfactory working
environment. A healthy and safe working environment prevents injuries,
increases productivity, reduces staff turnover, and lowers leave of absence due
to sickness.
The history of occupational health and safety dates back to antiquity, with
early recognition of lead toxicity in the mining industry, the development of
face masks, and the publication of the first comprehensive book on industrial
medicine by Bernardo Ramazzini. 14
 USA Health and Safety Practice

In the early 20th century, Dr. Alice Hamilton led efforts to improve
industrial hygiene, highlighting the correlation between worker illness
and exposure to toxins. This led to the passage of compensation acts for
certain civil employees in 1908, and the establishment of state
industrial hygiene programs in 1913. The U.S. Congress has passed
three landmark pieces of legislation related to safeguarding workers'
health: the Metal and Nonmetallic Mines Safety Act of 1966, the Federal
Coal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1969, and the Occupational Safety
and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act).
The Occupational Safety and Health Act established the federal
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which conduct
research and recommend solutions for preventing work-related illnesses
and injuries. Companies often have their own safety policies and safety 15
manuals to comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
 ELMIRA STRUCTURES, INC

has prepared its own health and safety policy to achieve accident prevention, reduce workers'
compensation costs, and provide a safe and healthful workplace. The company prioritizes the
personal safety and health of its employees, ensuring they use safety equipment and follow rules
of conduct. Cooperation between employees and management is essential for ensuring safe
working conditions, accident-free performance, and mutual advantage.
The company conducts a site risk evaluation to identify potential hazards such as fall hazards,
noise exposure, fires, electrical shocks, and slips. The site General Superintendent is responsible
for compliance with the company's Site Safety Work Plan, which includes record keeping, first aid,
demolition, fall protection, personal protective equipment, fire protection, and material handling.
The company safety officer monitors supervisory management and employee activity, coordinates
safety information, conducts job site inspections, maintains accident records, promotes safety
education, reviews safety rules, handles emergency procedures, and provides regular reports to
upper management.
The site superintendent/supervisor is responsible for following safety rules and procedures,
preventing bad work habits, correcting hazardous conditions, training employees, investigating
accidents, filing reports, and participating in safety committees.
Employee responsibilities include ensuring compliance with safety policies and procedures,
conducting weekly Toolbox safety talks, and protecting the public and building occupants from
potential safety, health, and fire hazards. 16
 UK Experience

The construction industry in the UK, which accounts for 8% of the GDP and employs 10% of the
working population, is one of the most dangerous sectors in the country. In 2004, the fatal injury rate
per 100,000 workers was 3.4, while the industrial average was 0.8.
In 2006/07, there was a 28% increase in fatalities, accounting for 32% of all notifiable fatal injuries.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that the industry saw an 11.5% drop in output in
2009, followed by a slow return to growth over the last few years. However, the industry still
represents 8.3% of the UK economy and employs over 300,000 enterprises employing over 2.5
million workers.
To reduce fatal and major injuries, the industry has set a target to reduce these injuries significantly.
Clients, such as British Land, play a crucial role in driving for improved health and safety standards.
They insist on evidence of a good health and safety record and performance of a contractor at the
tendering stage and ensure health and safety standards are met on site.
Corporate responsibility, encompassing environmental, human rights, and Third World poverty, is
essential for organizations to manage their core business to add social, environmental, and economic
value.
The HSE's mission is to ensure proper control of risks to workers' health and safety, encouraging
organizations to improve health and safety management systems, demonstrate the importance of
health and safety issues at the board level, and report publicly on health and safety issues within 17
their organization.
 The Japanese Experience

The Japanese experience with health and safety in the construction industry is characterized
by a strong emphasis on preventive measures, worker training, and strict enforcement of
regulations.
The Japanese government has implemented several laws and regulations to ensure the
safety of workers in the construction sector, including the Industrial Safety and Health Act,
which provides guidelines for risk assessment and safety measures.
One key aspect of the Japanese approach is the use of safety education and training
programs. Employers are required to provide regular safety training sessions for their
employees, covering topics such as hazard identification, safe work practices, and
emergency response. These training programs help to raise awareness and promote a
safety culture within the industry.
In addition, the Japanese construction industry focuses on promoting the use of advanced
technology and equipment to reduce hazards and increase efficiency. For example, the use
of industrial robots and automation systems has increased in recent years, reducing the
need for workers to perform hazardous tasks.
Japanese construction companies also prioritize worker welfare and well-being. Measures
such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and promoting work-life balance
through regular breaks and appropriate work hours contribute to ensuring workers' health 18
and safety.
 South Africa’s Experience

South Africa has made significant progress in improving safety and health practices in the construction
industry. The country has enacted legislation and established regulatory bodies to ensure the safety of
workers and reduce occupational hazards.
One notable reference is the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993), which outlines the
responsibilities of employers, employees, and contractors in ensuring a safe working environment.
This legislation requires employers to identify and eliminate potential hazards, provide training and
protective equipment to workers, and maintain safety standards on construction sites.
Another significant reference is the Construction Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act
(2014). These regulations focus specifically on the construction industry and provide guidelines for
managing and controlling risk in construction operations.
They require employers to conduct a risk assessment before commencing any construction work, establish
safety management systems, and appoint competent safety officers.
The South African construction industry has also established organizations to promote safety and health
practices.
The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has developed guidelines and best practices for
construction companies to improve safety performance. The South African Federation of Civil Engineering
Contractors (SAFCEC) also provides resources and support to its members in implementing safety and
health measures.
Despite these efforts, there are still challenges in ensuring full compliance with safety regulations in the
construction sector. The high rate of accidents and fatalities on construction sites remains a concern, and 19
more needs to be done to improve safety culture and increase enforcement measures.
 Importance of Safety and Health Management in Construction

The construction industry is known for its high-risk nature, and the safety and
health of workers and occupants in buildings are critical considerations.
Effective safety and health management practices not only protect
individuals from potential hazards but also contribute to the overall
productivity and sustainability of construction projects.
Nearly three million workers die every year due to work-related accidents and
diseases, an increase of more than 5% compared to 2015.
Most of these fatalities, totaling 2.6 million deaths, stem from work-related
diseases, with circulatory diseases, malignant neoplasms, and respiratory
diseases ranking among the top three causes of work-related death.
The ILO report, A Call for Safer and Healthier Working Environments, will be
presented at the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, one of
the largest international conferences on this subject.
The report underlines that more men die from work-related incidents (51.4
20
per 100,000 working age adults) compared to women (17.2 per 100,000).
 Importance of Safety and Health Management in Construction

The Asia and the Pacific region have the highest work-related mortality (63% of the
global total) because of the size of the region's workforce.
Agriculture, construction, forestry, fishing, and manufacturing are the most
hazardous sectors, accounting for 200,000 fatal injuries per year, representing 63%
of all fatal occupational injuries.
Management is ultimately responsible for OSH, and the need for commitment,
budgeting, and planning for safety falls upon management's shoulders.
Poor safety conditions and safety performance by the workforce result from
management's failure to effectively manage workplace safety and health.
Worker and supervisor involvement is critical to good workplace safety and health,
and effective communications and motivational procedures that are compatible with
the culture of the workforce are essential for achieving safe and healthy
performance or behavior.
Negligence of health and safety issues in an organization can lead to direct and
indirect costs, such as direct costs related to accidents and compensation costs. To
avoid these costs, the application of safety and health management systems with 21
the commitment of all parties involved is essential.
 Key elements for successful health and safety implementation

Hughes and Ferret (2007) identified key elements for positive health and safety performance
in construction organizations. These include
a clear health and safety policy, an organization with adequate measures to control
occupational hazards and diseases,
a safety plan, performance measurement, and performance review.
A well-thought-out policy contributes to business efficiency and continuous improvement.
A health and safety organization is essential for controlling occupational hazards and
diseases. Management must choose the most appropriate organizational structure for the
organization by considering its values and beliefs.
A safety plan is an organized and detailed means of scoping, defining, and controlling
potential workplace health and safety hazards. Performance standards help inform if
measures are being properly implemented and targets are being met.
Measurement is a key step in the management process, including active and reactive
monitoring to measure the effectiveness of health and safety measures.
Key performance indicators for health, safety, and environment include Lost Time Rate (LTR),
Total Accident Rate (TAR), Accident Severity Rate (ASR), Total Recordable Injury Rate (TRIR),
and Experience Modification Rate (EMR). Auditing and reviewing performance results helps 22
identify areas for improvement and take corrective actions if necessary.
 Health and safety culture

Safety culture is a subset of organizational culture that influences

health and safety.
It is influenced by individual, job, and organizational features. A
positive safety culture involves all employees in every step of the
process, and management is responsible for protecting workers
from occupational accidents and diseases.
A positive culture requires commitment from both senior
management and the entire workforce. Key components of a
positive safety culture include leadership, setting high standards,
assessing risks, developing control and monitoring systems,
having a clear policy, employee training programs, monitoring
equipment, and promptly investigating incidents.
A positive safety culture is essential for effective management of
health and safety in an organization. 23
 OSH legal frameworks

The International Labor Organization (ILO) develops International Labor Standards (OSH)
to address employment policy, working time, wages, social security, migrant workers,
and special categories of workers.
The International Labor Conference also develops ILS Conventions and recommendations,
which are legally binding standards for countries to enforce. ILO standards on OSH are
critical tools for governments, employers, and workers to establish sound prevention,
reporting, and inspection practices for safety and health at work.
The ILO Safety and Health Convention and code of practice for construction workers
provide guidelines for implementing health and safety practices on construction sites.
The code outlines steps such as providing welfare facilities, using scaffolds and ladders,
working at height, and maintaining a safe working environment.
Ethiopia, one of the world's countries to adopt ILO Convention No 155 of 1981, has Labor
Proclamation No. 377/2006, which is a comprehensive labor law addressing all aspects of
ensuring labor relations are governed with basic fundamental rights and obligations.
The law applies to all employer-employee relationships and excludes certain employment
relationships.
Ethiopia has no OSH policy specifically designed for construction workers, but the labor
proclamation serves as the legal framework for occupational health and safety standards
24
for construction workers in the country.
Safety and health in Project management

A successful project should not only meet time and

budget requirements but also prioritize safety
issues.
Project managers should include safety plans in
their charters, as a project that finishes on time and
under budget is not considered successful if workers
are injured.
They should communicate that safety and health
issues should be prioritized over time and budget,
leading to higher quality and fewer delays.
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 Characteristics of a construction project

The construction industry, a broad-ranging sector, is a major contributor to accidents

in developing nations.
It is characterized by an uneducated labor force, a labor-intensive industry, a large
number of small contractors, a complex and fragmented procurement system, and a
large number of informal contractors.
These factors contribute to the risk of accidents and poor health and safety
management.
In Ethiopia, the construction sector is characterized by a large number of workers,
many of whom lack education and skills, and a large number of small and informal
contractors.
These factors contribute to poor health and safety management in the construction
sector, as they are often unaware of OSH laws and regulations and are not
considered a priority.
In conclusion, the construction industry in Ethiopia is characterized by a lack of
education, skills, and a labor-intensive approach, which contributes to accidents and
poor health and safety management. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure the
safety and well-being of workers and the overall health and safety of the 26
construction industry.
 Safety measures in building construction projects

Building construction is a risky industry with dangerous tasks like lifting and working at heights.
Accident rates are used to measure construction safety performance, and measures should be taken by all
parties involved to prevent accidents. A safety policy is crucial for site managers and operating companies to
develop, stating the responsibility of each party involved and allocating responsibilities to management and
supervisors.
Site planning and layout are essential management functions in construction projects, as poorly planned and
messy sites can lead to accidents.
Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers from potential hazards,
including face shields, earplugs, safety shoes, gloves, hard hats, and eye goggles. Employees must be
supervised by a qualified H&S supervisor to ensure safety.
Regular safety inspections and audits are essential to prevent accidents in construction projects.
The general contractor/construction manager should correct any hazardous conditions identified and maintain
documentation of corrective action.
Fall protection is another important measure, with employers enforcing an effective fall protection program.
Health and safety warning signs and signals are common means of communicating health and safety
information.
First aid kits and trained personnel should be available at all times, and workers must notify enforcing
authorities of accidents.
Safety and health information and training are crucial for construction workers, as they are exposed to many
hazardous hazards.
Training includes instruction in hazard recognition and control measures, safe work practices, proper use of PPE,
and emergency procedures. 27
 Accident investigation

An accident investigation aims to determine the cause of an incident

and prevent recurrence.
Real accident outcomes and a company's accident experience are
crucial for effective training and safety talks.
Investigations can be divided into five main categories: Who, What,
When, Where, and How.
The accident instigator must answer questions about the involved
parties, the injured person's work, their employment duration,
training, qualifications, operating procedures, procedures, instructions,
safety rules, physical defects, attitudes, safety equipment, reasons for
the accident, actions, job planning, supervision, equipment use,
hazardous arrangements, supervisory personnel awareness,
contributing conditions, equipment ownership, weather conditions,
time, and what should be done. Empirical reviews can help identify
potential future accidents and how to avoid them. 28
Empirical review

Occupational health and safety are crucial in all

industries, with the construction sector being
particularly affected. With 11% of all occupational
injuries and 20% of deaths resulting from accidents,
construction accounts for at least 60,000 fatalities
worldwide annually, indicating that every ten
minutes, at least one fatal accident occurs in the
sector.

29
 Safety and health in construction projects

Research has been conducted on the factors affecting health and safety
implementation in construction projects, particularly in developing
countries.
Key factors include management and organization, resources (people,
materials, machinery, money, methods), site management, cosmetic
factors (factors beyond the contractor's control), and workforce (reckless
operation).
In Ethiopia, studies have found that the main challenges hindering the
application of safety and health standards in construction projects include
lack of integration of OSH issues in planning and execution,
lack of commitment from top management,
lack of worker participation in accident identification and planning,
lack of timely evaluation and planning system, and
lack of health and safety inspection. 30
 Safety and health in construction projects

Management commitment to safety is a key element of health and safety

management, as it involves setting up communication and information
procedures, ensuring health and safety reporting procedures, and providing
workers with appropriate training programs. The frequency of safety inspection
by management is another personal-related safety factor, with lower inspections
resulting in poorer implementation.
Communication and information procedures also play a crucial role in promoting
safe behavior among employees.
Resources, including human, financial, and physical resources, are essential for
implementing strategies in construction projects.
Experience project management, availability of personal protective equipment,
education, and experience of workers, and budget constraints all impact safety
and health management practices.
The education and skill level of construction workers also plays a significant role
in determining the effectiveness of safety management practices.
The level of commitment and attitude towards occupational health and safety
31
determines the effectiveness of the practice within a firm.
Research gap

Ethiopian researchers have studied health and

safety management in construction projects,
focusing on stakeholder contributions and accident
causes. However, there is a gap in research on
safety implementation practices in building
construction projects.

32
3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

33
Research Approach

Research involves systematic data collection and

analysis, with a research design defining the type of
study, data collection methods, and statistical
analysis plan. This study used a descriptive design
to investigate health and safety practices in Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia.

34
Population and Sampling Technique

Chapter three details a cross-sectional descriptive

study investigating SH practices in Addis Ababa
Lemi Kura sub-city, focusing on ten medium and
high-rise buildings from various construction
projects.

35
Data Sources and Data Collection

The data collection approach adopted to conduct

this research includes primary and secondary
sources: a questionnaire, an interview and actual
site observation. The various documents and
correspondence provide the primary data, while the
secondary data sources include books and journals
on construction project management, as well as
related archival documents on SH issues related to
construction works.

36
Questionnaire

This study uses an open-ended questionnaire to

collect data on OSH implementation practices in
Ethiopia, using a five-point agreement scale to
measure respondents' opinions, perceptions,
feelings, and attitudes.

37
Interview

This study interviewed six site representatives from

each project, observing daily operations and safety
hazards. These representatives were chosen due to
their familiarity with project activities and staff
attitudes, and their ability to recognize staff
shortcomings and abilities. The interviews were
semi-structured and focused on staff performance.

38
Site Observation

Observation is a method for gathering information,

using structured or unstructured methods.
Structured observation involves specific variables
and a schedule, while unstructured observation is
open and unrestricted. This research used a
checklist and observed project staff during different
working hours.

39
Secondary Data Sources

By providing a variety of perspectives on the

subject, secondary data sources provide a broad
overview of the focus area and serve to complement
additional information obtained from primary data
sources. Books, journals and other articles are
included.

40
4. RESULTS, ANALYSIS, AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

41
 Questionnaire Response Rate
Questioners Mean Score and Rank Results

The study analyzed the OSH practices in construction projects in Ethiopia by analyzing the responses
of contractors, consultants, and client representatives.
The results showed that all parties involved in the projects agreed that they are familiar with the
Ethiopian legislation on Safety at Work (SH) and the government's lack of commitment to
enforcement.
However, most contractors did not have a written SH policy and the policy was not communicated to
all concerned parties in the company.
The level of awareness of stakeholders on OSH practices was assessed through a questionnaire
consisting of seven questions. Contractor's engineers disagreed with the appointment of a SH Officer,
but agreed that the contractor held regular safety meetings and carried out site safety inspections.
Most participants were not aware of the required safety awareness of hazards and the company's
medical insurance for workers.
Gaps in the practice of safety and health related regulations were identified through a questionnaire
consisting of six questions. There was disagreement among all parties involved in the project sites
over the contractor's health and safety committee, staff training, and routine site safety inspections.
The primary causes of this were the wrong mindset and lack of dedication among the experts in the
project sites.
Contractor engineers' incorrect responses stemmed from their concern about being held accountable
for unfulfilled contractual obligations and OSH laws.
Consulting engineers advised that the contractual agreement be rigorously followed in projects 42
involving unsafe and illegal labor.
 Result of the Interview

The study interviewed six people, including a site representative from each project, to
understand the implementation of OSH laws and regulations.
The respondents expressed concerns about the fairness of application and the need for
additional funding due to the lack of a payment plan in the bidding criteria.
The majority of workers were from rural areas with lower awareness and literacy rates,
and the majority were younger.
They recommended regular instruction in the national language and diligent
enforcement to alleviate these issues.
The inclusion of SH issues in site meetings was also discussed, but problems were rarely
encountered.
The respondents also discussed the underlying issues that prevented contractual
enforcement, such as government offices having the most significant responsibility for
establishing a safe working environment and the building business prioritizing profit
over safety.
They also discussed the importance of holding contractors accountable for reducing
accident causes and the respect of stakeholders' obligations.
The study concluded that first aid situations are always present, but not appropriately 43
addressed.
 Site Observation Results

In addition to gathering data for the projects through

questionnaires and interviews, the researchers made an effort
to watch the stakeholders' SH activities. The Key findings
gathered at the projects are:
1.Lack of Safety Officer: Most of the project sites visited did not
have a designated safety officer responsible for overseeing and
implementing safety measures. The absence of a safety officer
contributes to a lack of consistent safety oversight and
enforcement.
2.Inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The workers
at the sites were not using proper PPE as per the safety
guidelines. Additionally, there was a lack of regular provision
and training on the use of PPE, leading to a higher risk of
workplace accidents and injuries. 44
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45
3.Absence of Safety and Health Policy: Several project sites did not
have a formal safety and health policy in place. A well-documented
safety and health policy is essential to ensure that all workers are
aware of the safety standards and procedures to be followed on-site.
4.Poor Site Layout and Management: The project site layouts were
observed to lack consideration for health and safety aspects. In
particular, the scaffolding used was predominantly wooden and not
appropriately managed, posing a significant risk of accidents. The
management of openings and potential hazards was also found to be
inadequate.
5.Lack of Safety Awareness: The employees demonstrated a lack of
awareness regarding health and safety practices. This was evident in
the absence of safety posters, inadequate training, and hesitance to
use provided PPE due to misconceptions, such as the belief that
wearing a helmet could lead to baldness. 46
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47
In general, based on the site visits we conducted regarding health and safety issues, it has become apparent that
there are significant gaps in the implementation of safety measures across the sites we visited. The majority of
the sites lack a designated safety officer, resulting in a lack of oversight and enforcement of safety practices. This
is a critical issue as the absence of a safety officer can lead to an increased risk of accidents and injuries.
Additionally, we noted that the workers at these sites are not consistently using personal protective equipment
(PPE), which is essential for mitigating potential hazards. It is crucial for the management to prioritize the
enforcement of PPE usage to ensure the safety and well-being of all workers.
Moreover, it was evident that there is a notable absence of a comprehensive safety and health policy at most of
the sites. A robust policy is essential to outline the guidelines and procedures for maintaining a safe work
environment. We did, however, observe one contractor in the process of approving their policy with the relevant
government body, which is a step in the right direction. It is imperative for all contractors to have a clearly defined
safety and health policy in place to ensure compliance with regulations and to safeguard the welfare of workers.
First aid provisions were found to be inadequate across the sites. The absence of a dedicated place for first aid and
the lack of proper first aid kits pose a significant risk in the event of accidents or injuries. Employing qualified
medical professionals or individuals trained in first aid is crucial for providing immediate assistance in the event of
an emergency. Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that all workers are aware of the location of first aid kits and
trained personnel.
Fundamental safety assessments and hazard identification procedures were not consistently carried out at the
sites. Conducting regular hazard assessments and identifying potential risks are critical in preventing accidents
and ensuring a safe work environment. It is imperative for all sites to implement robust hazard identification
processes to proactively address and mitigate potential risks.
Furthermore, there is a glaring lack of awareness training tools and programs at the sites. Proper training and
education about health and safety protocols are essential for ensuring that workers are equipped with the
knowledge to identify and respond to potential hazards. Investing in comprehensive training programs is essential 48
for fostering a culture of safety and ensuring that all workers are well-informed about safety practices.
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49
Identified Gaps of stake holders

50
Gaps in Government Offices correlated to OSH

Ethiopia's construction industry laws aim to reduce

fatalities but face issues like small penalties,
inadequate follow-up systems, and inadequate
inspections.
The country's policy lacks a coordinated approach
from regulatory bodies, and gaps exist in labor
inspections and workforce management.

51
Gaps in Clients in the Concern of OSH

Clients often neglect OSH measures during

feasibility studies and design, despite being aware
of OSH laws, highlighting the need for better
understanding and preparation in construction
projects.

52
Gaps in Contractors for the Concern of OSH

Contractors are responsible for their employees and

others during construction works, but there are gaps
in their work.
They do not assign a qualified SH officer, establish a
SH committee, provide PPEs, provide induction and
training, and follow worker activities regarding SH.
They also fail to penalize unlawful workers.

53
Gaps in Consultants for the Concern of OSH

Consultants are responsible for advising clients from

project initiation to completion. However, there are
gaps in their work, such as not ensuring client
awareness of roles and responsibilities, assigning a
qualified Engineer for contract administration, not
pushing contractors to implement SH clauses, and
not emphasizing massive investments in contract
documents.

54
Employees Gaps for the Concern of OSH

On project sites, employees are required to follow

managers' directions in order to safeguard
themselves, equipment, tools, and other people.
Poor PPE provision causes mishaps, therefore
employees need to follow site regulations and make
good use of the PPE they are given.

55
Discussions of Research Findings

The findings of the investigation are compared with

Ethiopia's existing OSH implementation and
enforcement practices for each of the following
objectives:

56
Awareness Level of SH and Implementation Practice

The study reveals a lack of awareness among

stakeholders about OSH laws and enforcement
practices in construction sites, highlighting the need
for frequent training and induction to improve
workplace safety.

57
Gaps in the Implementation Practice of SH

Ethiopia's implementation of OSH law is subpar

compared to ILO and OSHA guidelines due to
improper attitudes and lack of commitment among
professionals.
To improve the construction industry, Ethiopia
should adopt best practices from the UK, Japan,
USA, Australia, Kuwait, South Africa, Ghana, and
Kenya, provide SH facilities, and establish an OSH
department.

58
OSH Clauses in Condition of Contracts

The study revealed that despite a construction

contract agreement with safety clauses, safety and
health issues were not adequately addressed. It
recommended parties work on SH, a consultant, and
provisional budget allocation for SH.

59
5. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

60
 Conclusions

It is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals

working on project sites. By incorporating a range of occupational safety
and health (OSH) practices, project sites can significantly improve their
safety standards and foster a culture of heightened safety awareness
among the workforce.
In Ethiopia, the construction industry is confronted with difficulties in
effectively implementing OSH practices, as many laws are enacted without
proper coordination or practical application. There is a noticeable lack of
awareness among stakeholders and a prevalent indifferent attitude
towards OSH. It is crucial for building officers, labor inspectors, and
consulting engineers to play a pivotal role in minimizing accidents.
Nonetheless, there is insufficient oversight from regulatory bodies and
inadequate follow-up from consulting engineers.
Furthermore, there is a pressing need to prioritize hazard assessments and
identification, establish comprehensive awareness training programs, and
ensure thorough health and safety inspections conducted by government 61
authorities.
 Recommendations

1. Appointment of Safety Officers: It is imperative that each project appoints a competent safety
officer to oversee the implementation of safety measures, conduct regular inspections, and
train workers on safety protocols.
2. Provision of Adequate PPE: Management should ensure the regular provision of appropriate
PPE to all workers and conduct training sessions to emphasize the importance of PPE usage
for personal safety.
3. Development and Implementation of Safety and Health Policy: Each company should establish
a comprehensive safety and health policy in compliance with relevant regulations. This policy
should outline procedures for hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation measures.
4. Improvement of Site Layout and Hazard Management: Management should review and modify
the site layout to incorporate safety considerations. This includes proper management of
scaffolding, securing openings, and addressing potential hazards to minimize the risk of
accidents.
5. Conduct Safety Awareness Programs: Regular safety awareness programs should be
organized to educate workers about the importance of safety measures, guidelines for PPE
usage, and dispelling myths regarding safety equipment.
6. Assigning trained first aid providers: Training first aid providers at construction sites is crucial
for worker safety and well-being. They provide immediate medical assistance, stabilize injured
parties, and potentially prevent injury escalation. They also contribute to a proactive
approach to safety by identifying hazards and minimizing risks. They educate workers on 62
injury prevention and emergency responses, fostering a safer work environment.
THANK
YOU!
1. Zenamarkos Zinabie (ID:
GSR/6426/16)
2. Sisay Garoma (ID:
GSR/7932/14)
3. Biruk Bogale (ID:
GSR/5683/16)