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Knowledge, attitude and practices for design for safety: A study on civil & structural engineers
1Safety and Resilience Research Unit (SaRRU), Department of Building, School of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, 4 Architecture Drive, Singapore 117566, Singapore.
Accident; Analysis and Prevention
|October 20, 2015
Summary
Civil and structural engineers support Design for Safety (DfS) but require improved knowledge and practices. Enhancing client motivation is key to successful DfS implementation in construction projects.
Area of Science:
- Construction Management
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Engineering Design
Background:
- Design for Safety (DfS), also known as prevention through design, integrates safety and health hazard considerations early in construction project design.
- Effective hazard control through early intervention leads to safer worksites and construction processes.
- DfS is mandated in some countries, such as Singapore, highlighting its growing importance in the industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of civil and structural (C&S) engineers regarding Design for Safety (DfS).
- To identify areas for improvement in DfS KAP among C&S engineers to guide future research and interventions.
- To offer insights into applying the KAP framework within construction management research.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was developed and administered to 43 C&S engineers to assess their DfS KAP.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced construction professionals to gather qualitative insights on DfS perceptions.
- Quantitative data from questionnaires and qualitative data from interviews were analyzed to understand DfS KAP and related issues.
Main Results:
- C&S engineers generally show a supportive attitude towards DfS.
- The study identified a need for improvement in the level of DfS knowledge and practical application among C&S engineers.
- Increased availability of DfS guidelines and targeted training are recommended for engineers.
Conclusions:
- Improving client motivation for DfS is crucial for enhancing the KAP of C&S engineers.
- Further research is needed on contractual arrangements and the effectiveness of different DfS implementation strategies.
- The study provides a foundation for larger-scale baseline surveys on DfS KAP in the construction industry.
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