ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY CULTURE ON CONSTRUCTION WORKERS’ PERFORMANCE IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study aimed to assess the impact of health and safety culture on the performance of construction workers in Anambra State, Nigeria. The research found that Nigeria lacks adaptive health and safety laws, leading to poor health and safety performance in the construction industry. Furthermore, some construction companies in the study area do not provide adequate safety equipment for workers, which contributes to site accidents. The study had several objectives, including determining the level of awareness of health and safety culture among construction workers in Anambra State, identifying factors that affect the implementation of health and safety culture, and evaluating the effects of health and safety culture on construction workers' performance. The research also sought to propose measures for the effective implementation of health and safety culture to improve construction workers' performance. Data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire distributed to architects, builders, and structural engineers in the study area. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted to analyze the data, and the hypothesis was tested using the unequal variance t-test. The research revealed that the level of awareness of health and safety culture among construction workers in Anambra State is very high. It identified "Safety Standards and Guidelines" and "Employee involvement and engagement" as major factors affecting the implementation of health and safety culture in the study area. The study also found that health and safety culture had positive effects on construction workers' performance, including reduced accidents and enhanced productivity. To improve construction workers' performance and promote a culture of health and safety, the study recommended measures such as enhanced employee involvement and empowerment, safety training and education, provision of adequate safety equipment, fostering open communication, and conducting regular safety audits. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders in Anambra State can create a safer and more productive construction industry. It is crucial for employers, regulatory bodies, and workers to work together and prioritize health and safety, ultimately benefiting both workers and the success of construction projects in the region.