Understanding and overcoming barriers to risk communication processes related to trench excavation in the construction workplace

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Date
2014-08-20
Authors
Capps, William Earl
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Abstract
In the construction industry, trench excavation is one of the most hazardous kinds of work. Grim statistics caution that fatalities in trenching excavation are already occurring at a rate which is much higher than the overall fatality rate for mishaps in the construction industry, and this rate is continuing to increase. In addition to the potential for severe injury and death, there are significant costs and regulatory sanctions for companies whose employees ignore messages which are intended to inform them about these hazards. While these hazards are well known, and risk communication efforts have attempted to make workers aware of these hazards, evidence shows this knowledge has failed to reverse these trends. This research is intended to identify and examine issues which may inhibit the effective receipt of risk communication messages. Research data for this project was obtained through a review of published literature and by conducting on-site interviews and surveys with construction industry personnel.
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Keywords
Risk communication; Construction industry -- Safety measures; United States. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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