Safe-T-Cert: An Irish solution to the universal problem of assuring construction safety

The construction industry places unique demands upon employers to ensure the occupational health and safety of its employees and of everyone associated with their activities. Consequently over recent years occupational Health and Safety Management System standards have emerged, along with audit schemes related to particular industries. The primary purpose of such schemes is to bring about a culture of continual safety improvement across the construction industry. The work described in this paper explores the development of Safe-T-Cert in the Irish construction industry, charting its rise to prominence, particularly in Northern Ireland. Setting safety audit schemes in the context of global initiatives, the research found that many factors in the current climate, such as integrated management systems and UKAS accreditation, threaten the stronghold position enjoyed by the Safe-T-Cert scheme. The authors conclude that while there is merit in construction-specific certification schemes, caution is needed in their implementation, since the drivers for success are government and clients' support.