Tradesmen involvement in health and safety

Craftsmen performing construction work are in the best position to determine how a job should be performed safely. They should be involved in planning the safe execution of the work. Involvement will be a function of opportunity, capability, and motivation. A survey of contractor management personnel and craftsmen was conducted to assess their perceptions of these variables. A simulated planning exercise was conducted to assess craftsmen's capabilities, in terms of knowledge, of construction tasks and risks. Craftsmen were found to be capable, but inexperienced in reducing their knowledge to writing. Questioning uncovered the depth of their knowledge. Craftsmen perceive themselves as capable and motivated and seek the opportunity to be involved in planning for health and safety.