Safety Initiative Effectiveness in Hong Kong: One Size does not Fit All

Abstract

Hong Kong is experiencing a massive increase in construction output. However, the cost of work-related accidents and ill-health in the construction industry account for as much as 8.5% of project costs when social, direct and indirect costs are included. The industry in general is receptive to change and becoming more OHS conscious but the forces driving change in the industry are opposing. The research found that institutional barriers exist to a concerted improvement effort and the best performing contractors, clients, consultants and subcontractors attain standards of excellence comparable with the best in the world but there is a wide range of organizational maturity, and so performance, throughout the industry. In this research study the following issues have been identified where new initiatives need to be developed: • Developer attitude: a culture change is required: • Client insurance; • “Can do” attitude; • Use of data; • Maturity of Organisations; • Health issues