Path forward: emerging issues and challenges

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Construction Industry Research
• Environmental Health

Background:

• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Construction Program collaborated with industry stakeholders to create a comprehensive National Occupational Safety and Health Construction Agenda.
• Recognizing the dynamic nature of the construction sector, the agenda aims to guide future research and activities, addressing both established and emerging concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline key emerging issues in construction safety and health that require targeted research and intervention.
• To highlight the need for continued research into the adoption and implementation of safety findings within the construction industry.

Main Methods:

• Development of a National Occupational Safety and Health Construction Agenda through collaboration with industry stakeholders.
• Identification and description of emerging issues relevant to construction safety and health.

Main Results:

• Key emerging issues identified include climate change, green construction, new materials, industry structural changes, workforce dynamics, injury underreporting, and a focus on root causes.
• The study underscores the challenge of balancing emerging issues with longstanding concerns in construction safety research.
• The need for research on the diffusion and adoption of safety research findings by the industry is emphasized.

Conclusions:

• Existing research provides a solid foundation for addressing future construction industry needs and trends.
• Continued research and strategic planning are essential to effectively manage emerging risks and ensure a safe and healthy construction workforce.