Methods of Improving Reporting of Occupational Accidents in the Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

Information concerning occupational accidents are far less accessible in developing nations, and where data do present, they are mostly undependable. The serious problem is under-reporting. Various types of occupational injuries are sometimes not reported to the appropriate authorities by the construction organizations. Also, the regulatory authorities to ensure all occupational accidents are reported, making sure organizations complied with health and safety regulations, equally perform below standard. The aim of the study therefore is to explore the methods of improving reporting of occupational accidents in the Nigerian construction industry. A literature review was conducted about the under-reporting of occupational accidents, thereafter, 300 structured questionnaires were distributed, to solicit information from the construction professionals in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Nigeria, and 235 were returned, therefore considered for the analysis of the study. The data were analyzed with SPSS software and excel. The study found that an increase in health and safety awareness will enhance employees' and organizations' knowledge in the recording and reporting of occupational accidents. The study suggests that organizations and employees should keep with internal accident recording systems whether or not legal obligations to report them are in place, the reasons being for humanitarian, economic, management, and industrial relations.