Comparing the Health and Safety Climate of Local and Multinational Construction Organisations in Ghana

Abstract

This study assesses the health and safety climate (H&SC) in the Ghanaian construction industry and compares the climate in local construction organisations (LCOs) and multinational construction organisations (MCOs). A quantitative research approach using a structured survey based on six H&SC dimensions was used to gather data from 153 experienced professionals. The results reveal that while the workforce is committed to health and safety, they are let down by underdeveloped organisational systems. A significant disparity in H&SC was found between organisation types. Statistical analysis (t-tests) confirmed that MCOs outperformed LCOs, particularly in management commitment, supervisor involvement, health and safety training, and communication. The findings indicate that the superior H&SC in MCOs is likely due to stringent global standards, greater resources, and robust health and safety systems. In contrast, LCOs are hampered by underdeveloped systems and a view of health and safety as a compliance issue rather than a core value. Bridging this gap requires LCO leadership to visibly prioritise health and safety, invest in training, and enhance communication. Knowledge transfer from MCOs could help leverage the workforce’s motivation to improve overall industry health and safety performance.