Identifying accident risk factors for foreign workers in the construction sector: A case study approach in Malaysia

Abstract

The construction industry remains hazardous, with 5,379 injuries and 88 fatalities reported by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, emphasizing the need for improvements in workplace safety. Although foreign workers assist in addressing labor shortages, there is limited qualitative information on the causes of workplace accidents among this group. This study identifies accident risk factors affecting foreign workers and recommends measures to enhance construction safety. Utilizing a snowball sampling approach, semi-structured interviews are used to gather data for this study. Data were collected through five interviews until saturation was achieved. Using thematic analysis, five main factors that increase accident risk among foreign workers were identified: language barriers, lack of safety knowledge, lack of safety training, lack of experience, and cultural differences. It was identified that these factors contributed to an inadequate understanding of safety standards, problems in communication, and hazardous working practices. The findings proposed several approaches, such as safety training courses, safety certification courses, language enhancement courses, mentoring programs, cultural awareness programs, communication and safety technology supports. The findings had practical implications that would help to direct a campaign among construction managers and legislative members to enhance the safety and reduce the accident risks of foreign construction workers.