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Comparative Analysis of Construction Safety Culture in Australia and China: A Systematic Literature Review

  • Yiqin YU (Department of Construction Management, Tsinghua University) ;
  • Yao WANG (Department of Construction Management, Tsinghua University) ;
  • Wenqi LI (Department of Construction Management, Tsinghua University) ;
  • Yuecheng HUANG (Department of Construction Management, Tsinghua University) ;
  • Dongping FANG (Department of Construction Management, Tsinghua University)
  • Published : 2024.07.29

Abstract

The construction industry has been recognized as one of the most high-risk industries globally, promoting a shift towards enhancing safety culture to mitigate accident rates. With a notable good safety performance in Australia, this study therefore compares its advanced safety culture with the evolving safety culture in China through a systematic review of literature published over the last two decades. The aim of the research is to explore the influence of differing societal cultural contexts on the development of safety culture. The study covers various aspects of safety culture, including leadership and management commitment, regulatory environments, safety communication, workers'involvement, and organizational safety systems. Findings indicate a strong commitment from industry participants in both countries. However, there are notable differences in safety culture conceptualization and implementation. Australia showcases a mature safety culture, deeply integrated with stringent regulations and fostering individual proactive engagement. Conversely, China's safety culture, marked by rapid evolution, emphasizes regulatory compliance, with challenges in achieving broad worker participation. The analysis highlights that Australian construction workers' inclination towards a proactive approach in managing safety, in contrast to Chinese construction workers who tend to focus more on adhering to safety regulations than actively participating in safety initiatives. These findings emphasize the significant role societal culture plays in shaping construction safety cultures. The study's insights are instrumental for practitioners across the global construction industry, advocating for the adoption of nuanced, culturally sensitive safety management strategies to enhance safety outcomes.

Keywords

References

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