OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND SAFETY MEASURES IN LARGE-SCALE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Abstract

Large-scale construction projects play a pivotal role in global economic growth, yet they expose workers to significant occupational hazards due to complex operations, heavy machinery, and evolving site conditions. This study examines the main dangers that together cause the bulk of industry fatalities: electrocution, falls from heights, struck-by and caught-in-between events, and ergonomic and chemical hazards. Drawing on global statistics, empirical studies, and case analyses, the paper evaluates the effectiveness of safety interventions, including regulatory frameworks, technological solutions (BIM, wearable sensors, drones, AI-based monitoring), and behavioral measures (training and integrated safety management systems). Findings reveal that while regulations reduce incident rates by 20–30% and technologies enhance hazard detection by up to 50%, inconsistent enforcement, high costs, and resource limitations remain barriers, particularly in developing countries. The study concludes that integrated, adaptive safety ecosystems are essential for reducing risks, protecting workers, and enhancing efficiency in large-scale construction projects.