Percy Junior Castro Mejía
Clinton Sumner Campos Coronel
Clinton Sumner Campos Coronel
Luis Eduardo Ancajima Gaona
Luis Eduardo Ancajima Gaona
Jeanpierre Fernando Delgado Ventura
Jeanpierre Fernando Delgado Ventura
Dimas Hugo Flores Montero
Dimas Hugo Flores Montero
Walter Enrrique Huilca Alcántara
Walter Enrrique Huilca Alcántara
School of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, César Vallejo University, Chiclayo 14001, Peru Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15189; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115189Submission received: 3 July 2023 / Revised: 21 August 2023 / Accepted: 28 August 2023 / Published: 24 October 2023
(This article belongs to the Section Health, Well-Being and Sustainability)The purpose of this research was to propose safety measures and enhance worker health in building construction to minimize risks. The methodology followed a basic approach with a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design at a quantitative level involving a sample of 45 workers. This research employed methods such as direct observation, interviews, and documentary exploration, as well as tools including a comparison list, the SPSS program, and an impact evaluation. Scores, ranges, and levels of health and safety were determined, resulting in a score of 105 and dimensions ranging from 6 to 40. Similarly, for construction-related risks, a score of 105 was achieved, and the dimensions ranged between 6 and 40 points. The study’s findings indicated that, concerning health and safety distribution, 8.89% considered the proposal as poor, 24.44% perceived it as average, and 66.67% regarded it as good. In terms of construction risks distribution, 33.33% perceived them as low, 31.11% as moderate, and 35.56% as high. This underscores the necessity of adhering to protective measures during construction projects to address the risks and uncertainties of prevention.
Safety at work and the health of workers occupies a prominent place at a universal level. Through the affirmation of components, compliance with a strict rule on the matter is required, which allows the surveillance of the dangers of workers and the protection of the health of workers. Despite this, [1] human safety in the universe is not guaranteed, so there are some workplaces where health and safety regulations are not met. The most worrying statistic, according to the WHO, is that, annually, approximately 12 million workers in low-income countries die during work hours due to unsustainable wages, and it is widely recognized that many workers in various labor markets lack health insurance plans and stable employment. In Peru, the regulation of rigorous practices in terms of greater health and safety at work is Law No. 29783, updated by Law No. 30222, and its regulations, DS 005-2012-TR, modified by DS 006-2014-TR and DS 016-2016-TR at the national level, based on the common commitment of businessmen, associations, and the State.
The Occupational Health and Safety Management System (SG-SST), as a technique, is significantly interconnected and multiple, which is why it is subject to interrelated compound causes, has dependencies, and responds through their components. When the objectives are achieved, these methods are considered effective [2].
In turn, the Ministry of Labor and Employment Promotion claims that the execution of works are the most vulnerable to accidents at the national level, according to an investigation that registered more than 2500 notices of work accidents in the first month of 2019 (112% more than in 2018) [3].
On the other hand, the General Directorate of Statistics and Information and Communication Technologies of the MTPE in Peru reported that, as of May 2017, only five cases of work accidents had been identified. This indicates that the number of actual incidents is lower. In addition, according to Law 29,783 of OSH, the causality principle could be the number of experts that undertake such investigations or the lack of investigations and observations made by public and private providers [4].
Likewise, the International Labor Organization records 2.78 million deaths caused by work-related accidents and illnesses, out of the 374 million who suffer from them. These accidents not only generate expenses for companies, but also loss of life that could have been avoided. Therefore, it is crucial to implement a security plan to prevent these losses [4].
Likewise, industries and the advancement of world standards require the monitoring and reporting of hazards that affect workers who work on site to protect their physical integrity, which motivates the implementation of policies to reduce hazards. This sort of event is defined as “a harmful event in the future” when it interferes or prevents the normal development of the association’s work or causes work accidents, suffering at work, or damage to health [5].
As Roa [6] pointed out, general safety concerns in construction companies are alarming enough to warrant immediate attention and intervention. Likewise, she points out that one of the great challenges of today’s society is to guarantee respect for the occupational health and safety (OSH) of the members of the community who work in companies, highlighting how vital this is when it comes to performing their jobs. To meet SG-SST objectives, SG-SST must be administered.
Then, according to the suggested logic of the presented process, strategies such as action plans and continuous improvement should be developed when there are discrepancies in those measurements. This will help to achieve and contribute to the purpose of the system to avoid catastrophic events by reducing potential accident monitoring and control precursors [6].
As reported by Roa [6], a safe environment consists of three components: education and training, risk assessment, and risk prevention. These three components, along with company guidelines, standards, and legislation, form the fabric of a secure environment. In this sense, Roa advocates for inclusion and systematic clarity between the internal components of an organization and those that involve external contexts.
Therefore, the following question is formulated: what is the result of the health and safety proposal for the reduction in risks in the construction of a school? The hypothesis is as follows: a proposal for safety at work and worker health for the reduction in risks in the construction of a school. The present research work is demonstrated in theory since it allows us to gather hypotheses about health and safety in the workplace and, in this way, manage to reduce the risks of workers within a school. With this health and safety proposal, it will be possible to optimize the way of working in construction. It serves as an excuse because it leaves the proposal of health and safety at work, prioritizing the safety techniques aimed at being able to investigate the risks and thus being able to appreciate the risks and recognize the dangers in construction, as well as the consequences of the minimization of the number of accidents at work. Likewise, within the economic framework, it is precisely specified that this health and safety proposal minimizes risks and warns of occupational accidents, which cause very high restoration costs, which can be prevented and controlled. Finally, the methodological part is explainable because the project proposal respects a generalizable roadmap, which could be used in future research.
This research was of paramount importance in highlighting the essential focus of ensuring a safe environment for construction workers, students, and staff involved in creating the school. This specialized emphasis underscores the need to proactively address potential hazards during the construction phase, not only to protect the immediate workforce, but also to set a positive precedent for safety-conscious construction practices. By prioritizing health and safety measures, this proposal extends its impact beyond the construction site, shaping a responsible construction culture that prioritizes the well-being of future occupants and contributes to the overall reduction in occupational accidents and illnesses. Additionally, the proposal’s dedication to creating a safe and conducive learning environment aligns with the core values of education, growth, and development, thus fostering a sustainable and safe space for generations to come.
The general objective evaluated is as follows: define the credibility of the health and safety proposal in the reduction in risks in the construction of a school. The specific objectives are as follows: define the credibility of the planning of the health and safety proposal in the reduction in risks in the construction of a school; define the credibility of the implementation of the health and safety proposal in the reduction in risks in the construction of a school; and define the credibility of the verification of the health and safety proposal in the reduction in risks in the construction of a school. The proposed hypothesis is as follows: the health and safety proposal significantly reduces the risks in the construction of a school.
On a global scale, we can draw insights from the work of Pinilla [7], who conducted a thesis in Colombia. His study aimed to implement a plan that enhances and sustains the integrated management of the SSOMA program while aligning it with project requirements to mitigate potential risks. The findings suggested that a well-executed management plan could effectively address accidents and illnesses, thereby facilitating project progression and minimizing work-related incidents. Similar to how an environmental plan facilitates various activities, this maintenance plan streamlines processes, allowing for better time planning and environmental protection.
Zambrano [8] also contributes to our understanding through research carried out in Ecuador and Colombia. This study integrated elements from the international standard OHSAS 18,001 [9] and local laws to design a tool for assessing worker health and safety risks. The resulting tool, named “Evaluation of the Health and safety of Workers in the Work Area for Colombian and Ecuadorean Companies,” was developed and validated. It covers aspects like normal conditions, workers’ health and safety competencies, observation, and advisory reviews.
Shifting our focus to the national context, Calixto [10] conducted research at a university in Barranca, aiming to establish the interconnectedness of health, worker safety, and environmental management. Using a non-probabilistic approach, the study engaged 37 participants. A questionnaire was employed to evaluate dimensions such as the ultimate outcome, the Worker’s Health Plan, Instructional Planning, and Environmental Exploitation Project.
Turning to Potosi Arotinco and Manosalva Figueroa [2], their study in a machinery and construction company in Cajamarca, Andes, explored the relationship between worker safety, health, and productivity. By surveying 80 workers, the research aimed to determine the alignment between health and safety factors. The study’s questionnaire encompassed three dimensions: working conditions, ergonomics, and occupational risks. The results indicated a strong correlation between worker safety, health, and productivity.
Nevado [11] offers insights from his investigation conducted within a Chinese company’s Peru branch in Lima. A sample of 250 workers was examined to assess the correlation between security, company health, and worker health. Document examination and monitoring techniques were employed, reflecting a diagnostic foundation, planning, implementation, verification, and continuous improvement action.
Furthermore, Aguilar Ninaquispe et al. [12] addressed the relation between health and safety in the construction sector. Their research aimed to reduce the negative impact of worker health and safety practices. The collection of data highlighted the significance of these variables in enhancing health and safety within construction sites.
At the national level, Aguilar Ninaquispe et al. [12] proposed a coordination method to address the absence of current regulations (Law 29783) within a company. They employed the IPER matrix, monitoring, risk assessments, and corrective actions to instill a better health and safety culture among construction workers, thereby transforming risk scenarios into healthy environments.
Similarly, in the research by Aguilar Ninaquispe et al. [12], the exploration of dimensions aimed at anticipating and addressing concerns. This documentary study emphasized compliance with regulations, instruction, and prevention across various socioeconomic contexts.
The Republic of Peru introduced Supreme Decree No. 011-2019-TR, a regulation governing Occupational Health and Safety Standards in the Construction Sector. The decree’s objective was to enhance the health and safety of construction workers, minimizing injuries and illnesses while promoting education and training.
Gagliardo [13] underscored that workplace health and safety encompasses management strategies designed to safeguard employees physically and mentally, which, in turn, can boost productivity. A comprehensive understanding of coordinating worker health and safety mechanisms involves implementing standards and necessary policies.
Alarcón [14] emphasizes the significance of human capital within companies and its impact on productivity and quality of services. While work contributes to various aspects of well-being, risk conditions necessitate prevention efforts in the workplace.
The Ministry of Energy and Mines [15] further underscored the importance of worker safety through Law No. 29783, which seeks to promote risk prevention training and collaboration between workers, the State, and unions to ensure compliance and accountability.
Given the multitude of risks across various occupations, the need for prevention is emphasized to improve health and safety at work, reducing accidents and occupational diseases [3].
Ordoñez et al. [16] highlighted the benefits of prioritizing worker health and safety, citing reduced incident risks, increased efficiency, improved work relations, and enhanced performance.
Within the international context, Gómez et al. [17] conducted a quantitative study in Quito, addressing the challenges of workplace accidents. Their findings revealed common patterns of accidents due to inadequate instructions, supervision, and protective equipment, highlighting the need for worker education and better adherence to safety measures.
Nava [18] presented a strategic approach involving private companies from the engineering sector, focusing on achieving a balance in project development. The Organizational Project Management Maturity Model was employed to evaluate and improve organizational capacities for project management.
Novoa [19] carried out a project in Lima, proposing a Security Management Plan for the Amazonas–Peru region. The research identified the lack of a safety plan and inadequate training among personnel. Implementing a Health and Safety Management System was recommended to prevent accidents and promote compliance with regulations.
These various studies and regulations together underscore the importance of worker safety, health, and the implementation of effective management systems to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
The survey is of an applied nature, focusing on gathering current data about health and safety in the construction of the specific school being studied. This research involves formulating hypotheses and generating proposals to enhance health and safety practices. This initiative aims to uphold health and safety standards during construction, with the added benefit of yielding advantages in school construction projects.
This research employed a quantitative approach with a non-experimental, cross-sectional design at a correlational level, focused on collecting reports on the variables under study. As Aponte Castillo and Quispe Rodríguez [20] suggest, cross-sectional forms aim to capture insights into variables, societies, environments, events, or circumstances, while also describing the prevalence of an evaluation aimed at concluding an investigation.
The image of the research design is a shown (Figure 1): M: construction workers r: health and safety proposal and O: risks in constructionThe independent variable, health and safety, was quantitatively measured in this study. Chayan [21] emphasized the importance of a protective project for construction workers and vulnerable individuals in less secure work areas. Three dimensions were used: planning, execution, and verification, with a Likert-scale questionnaire of 21 items. Indicators included hazard identification, risk assessment, process establishment (planning); company resources, functions, responsibilities, control, and emergency response (execution); and performance measurement, incident investigation, actions, and record control (verification).
The dependent variable, construction risks, was also quantitatively measured. Chayan [21] suggested that risks could be mitigated through improved connections with the work environment, and warnings could signify potential hazards. Operationally, risks were defined as reactions hindering work progress and endangering individuals. Chayan’s [21] approach encompassed three dimensions: environmental safety, work environment, and physical, chemical, and biological pollutants. The measurement involved a 14-item Likert-scale questionnaire with indicators including work accidents, unsafe conditions, and occupational diseases (Physical Risks); work overload, prolonged work, stress, and fatigue (Ergonomics and Work Environment); and physical, chemical, and biological risks (Polluting Risks in Construction).
The population for this research, defined in accordance with Aponte Castillo and Quispe Rodríguez [20], constitutes a specific, bounded, and accessible collection of cases essential for sample selection and adheres to predefined criteria. In this context, the research population comprises 45 construction workers actively involved in the school construction project. The exclusion criteria were applied to all individuals except the workers, maintaining the study’s focus. The sample was composed of these 45 workers, a representative subset selected to capture pertinent and reliable information. Employing a non-probability convenience sampling method, as described by Aponte Castillo and Quispe Rodríguez [20], researchers chose participants based on availability and relevance, enabling them to concentrate on specific research objectives. Thus, the core unit of analysis consisted of the group of 45 construction workers, allowing the study to delve into health and safety aspects within the construction context.
Regarding Data Collection Techniques, a questionnaire was employed as the primary instrument. This tool proved effective in providing relevant answers to address potential enigma cases. In terms of Data Collection Instruments, a questionnaire consisting of a series of questions was utilized to gather information from the surveyed individuals and quantify variables. As outlined by Chayan [21], this approach revolved around presenting a sequence of questions to a specific group of individuals to inquire about a particular research topic (Table 1 and Table 2).
