Barriers to the implementation of COVID-19 safety regulations: insight from Ghanaian construction sites

Abstract

Purpose The new normal introduced by COVID-19 has ushered in new safety regulations that are required to be implemented by all organisations, including the construction industry. The implementation of the COVID-19 regulations, like any health and safety regulation, is not without hindrances. Consequently, this study aims to explore factors hindering the implementation of COVID-19 safety regulations at construction sites in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a qualitative research method using an open-ended questionnaire as a data collection instrument. The set of questionnaires were distributed by means of purposive and snowball sampling methods. The collected data were analysed by means of the thematic analysis technique. Findings It became evident that several factors militate against implementing COVID-19 safety regulations at construction sites. Cost of implementing COVID-19 safety measures, lack of compliance and ignorance were identified as the most hindering factors, whereas superstition, lack of personal protective equipment supply and theft of COVID-19 materials were reported by fewer respondents. Research limitations/implications The set of questionnaires were limited to small construction firms who were operating on site within the Central, Western and Greater Accra regions of Ghana during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the findings may be applicable to firms outside these regions because most of the small construction firms in the country share similar characteristics. Practical implications The recommendations proffered could help construction organisations devise strategies to overcome the barriers that hamper the implementation of COVID-19 safety regulations on site. Moreover, the findings could inform policymakers on what is required to enforce compliance on site. Originality/value COVID 19 is still new, and as a result, the body of knowledge is at the infancy stage. This article contributes to advancing the body of knowledge in the area of COVID-19 implementation challenges on construction sites.

Contrasting Hygiene-Related Gastrointestinal Infections and Stress-Related Diseases at a Primary Health Care Facility within a Sub-Saharan African City: Before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

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“…However, during construction, it becomes difficult to strictly follow the COVID-19 protocols at the site (wearing of face mask, regular sanitisation of tools and machinery and social distancing). Researchers in this context have recommended measures such as online meetings, employing workers in shift system, awareness of COVID-19 hygiene protocols through emails, webinars, WhatsApp groups and posters and signboards at the site; however, project officials should make sure that adequate financial provisions for these activities are attended (Simpeh et al, 2021). Nevertheless, all of these actions may be futile unless the construction workers change their behaviour to a more informed and intrinsic culture regarding the importance of health and safety protocols.…”

“…Health, safety and well-being concerning the COVID-19 virus have become the new normal and ushered in the rules and regulations of project's safety that are made mandatory for all organisations (Simpeh et al. , 2021).…”