Introduction

In the construction industry, safety is paramount due to the inherently hazardous nature of the work environment. Both individual perceptions of risk and broader perspectives informed by organizational policies play crucial roles in shaping safety performance on construction sites (Haslam, Hide, Gibb, Gyi, Pavlovich, & Duff, 2018; Zou, Zhang, & Wang, 2018). This article examines the distinctions between perception and perspective, their impact on construction safety performance, and strategies for integrating these elements to foster a robust safety culture on-site.

Defining Perception and Perspective in Construction Safety

In a construction context, perception is how workers interpret and respond to potential hazards based on personal experience, training, and sensory input. For instance, a construction worker who has witnessed a fall might perceive a routine task at height as highly dangerous, influencing their behavior on the job (Zou et al., 2018). Such subjective interpretations can either enhance vigilance or, if skewed, lead to undue stress and inefficiencies.

Perspective involves understanding the broader context of safety, incorporating company policies, industry regulations, and collective knowledge gained through training and experience. In construction, a perspective that considers past incident data, regulatory standards, and best practices helps workers assess risks more objectively, leading to balanced decision-making and improved safety outcomes (Haslam et al., 2018).

How Perception Influences Construction Safety Performance

Risk Assessment:

On a construction site, individual risk assessments based solely on personal perception can lead to inconsistent safety practices. Workers who underestimate risks may neglect critical safety protocols, while those who overestimate hazards might delay work unnecessarily or cause operational inefficiencies (Zou et al., 2018).

Behavioral Responses:

A worker’s immediate reaction to hazards is influenced by their personal perception. For example, if safety gear is viewed as cumbersome due to past negative experiences, compliance may decrease. Conversely, if workers perceive safety measures as essential safeguards, adherence to protocols is likely to improve (Haslam et al., 2018).

Communication and Reporting:

Perceptions of the reporting system and safety culture can affect whether workers report near-misses or potential hazards. In environments where workers view safety issues as trivial or fear reprisal, underreporting becomes an issue, hindering proactive improvements on site (Zou et al., 2018).

The Role of Perspective in Enhancing Construction Safety Culture

Balanced Decision-Making:

Integrating personal perceptions with an informed perspective helps workers make better decisions. A perspective enriched by safety data, regulatory guidelines, and structured training can moderate personal biases, ensuring a more balanced approach to risk (Haslam et al., 2018).

Targeted Training and Education:

Regular, comprehensive safety training tailored to construction hazards broadens workers’ perspectives by providing objective insights and sharing real-world case studies. This approach helps shift reliance from subjective impressions to evidence-based risk management (Zou et al., 2018).

Inclusive Safety Dialogue:

Open communication channels among site workers, supervisors, and management are crucial. Safety meetings and toolbox talks allow workers to share experiences and align their personal perceptions with the collective perspective, ensuring that all safety practices are continually refined and updated (Haslam et al., 2018).

Leadership Engagement:

Supervisors and site managers set the tone for safety on construction sites. When leaders model balanced decision-making—valuing both individual experience and the broader safety framework—they reinforce a culture where safety is a shared responsibility (Zou et al., 2018).

Strategies to Harmonize Perception and Perspective in Construction

Interactive, Scenario-Based Training:

Implement training sessions that allow workers to discuss personal risk perceptions while comparing them with empirical safety data and best practices. This method is particularly effective in bridging the gap between subjective experiences and objective safety protocols.

Robust Communication Channels:

Establish clear, non-punitive reporting systems for hazards and near-misses. Transparent communication encourages workers to report safety issues without fear, allowing the organization to adapt and improve safety measures continually.

Regular Feedback Mechanisms:

Hold frequent safety meetings and debriefs where workers can provide insights based on their experiences. Incorporating this feedback into formal safety reviews helps harmonize individual perceptions with the organization’s overall safety perspective.

Active Leadership Participation:

Ensure that site supervisors and managers engage in safety training and discussions. When leaders share their own experiences and emphasize data-driven practices, it reinforces the value of balancing personal perceptions with a comprehensive safety perspective.

Conclusion

In the construction industry, the interplay between individual perception and a broader safety perspective is critical for enhancing safety performance. While personal perceptions provide immediate, experience-based insights, a well-rounded perspective informed by data, regulations, and training ensures objective risk assessment and decision-making. By harmonizing these elements through targeted training, transparent communication, and active leadership engagement, construction organizations can build a resilient safety culture that minimizes risk and promotes continuous improvement.

References

Haslam, R., Hide, S., Gibb, A., Gyi, D., Pavlovich, K., & Duff, A. R. (2018). The impact of psychological safety on construction site safety outcomes: A systematic review. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 144(8), 04018082.

Zou, P. X. W., Zhang, G., & Wang, J. (2018). Understanding construction safety climate and its impact on construction safety performance: A review. Safety Science, 109, 127–138.

Author:

Chuck Twellmann, MS, PE, PMP, Manager Transmission Construction Services, Ameren
Health & Safety Committee Chair