NAVIGATING DESIGN FOR SAFETY EDUCATION: A Framework of Diffusion and Implementation Barriers

• Published in: Handbook of Drivers of Continuous Improvement in Construction Health, Safety, and Wellbeing
• Main Author: Umeokafor N.; Windapo A.; Umar T.; Che Ibrahim C.K.I.
• Format: Book chapter
• Language: English
• Published: CRC Press 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85208905471&doi=10.1201%2f9781032614069-18&partnerID=40&md5=e6c204a853c1ce7725249750269ac800

In this study, the authors developed a framework of the barriers to design for safety (DfS) education and training diffusion in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) based on a literature review and outline some improvement strategies. They authors were motivated by the little attention that the topic has received despite its strategic position in improving construction health and safety. The authors conducted thematic analysis of the extracted data and identified limited attention to DfS; school curricula do not make provisions for health and safety including DfS content, and there is little enthusiasm from academics to address this. Other reasons for the lack of academic attention to DfS are the lack of time required; negative attitudes; and the lack of necessary DfS skills, knowledge, and experience. In addressing these, proposed strategies include incorporating DfS concepts into AEC designs, developing DfS capacity for academics, and adopting innovative teaching methods. The study is based on a literature review and is therefore somewhat subjective. Consequently, empirical validation and a deeper insight into the findings are recommended based on adopting both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Further, the authors recommend a detailed study on strategies for DfS education and training diffusion and implementation that would identify and contextualise barriers not already covered in the literature to expand understanding of them. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Nnedinma Umeokafor, Fidelis Emuze, Che Khairil Izam Che Ibrahim, Riza Yosia Sunindijo, Tariq Umar, Abimbola Windapo and Jochen Teizer.