Industry application of the construction safety framework

Despite improvements in OHS performance over the past 20 years, the injury and fatality rate in the Australian Construction Industry remains a matter of concern. Recent investigations into construction site safety culture (Biggs et al., 2006, Dingsdag et al., 2006) have provided a means through which the industry could address this issue. This paper reports on a project to continue development of the Construction Safety Competency Framework by formulating comprehensive implementation guides and support kits covering all 39 Safety Management Tasks and all safety critical positions identified in the Framework. Developmental issues, industry liaison processes, and stakeholder ownership issues are discussed as well as future implications for skill acquisition of safety critical tasks and recruitment and professional development concerns. The anticipated outcomes have the potential to enhance current safety skill and behaviour acquisitions in both 1st tier and 2nd tier construction companies.