Evaluating the role and effectiveness of training interventions in improving the occupational health and safety of younger construction workers: A literature review

Younger construction workers (age 15-24) suffer occupational injury at a much higher rate than older workers, raising concern over the effectiveness of widespread health and safety (H&S) interventions, particularly the quality of education and training provided to young workers about workplace H&S. Based on a review of relevant literature, this paper examines H&S training interventions in the UK and discusses their potential effectiveness in improving the occupational H&S of younger construction workers. The literature review reveals that H&S initiatives for young workers have rarely been examined and evaluated. Without this knowledge and understanding, the development of sound intervention efforts particularly within the complex construction industry context is greatly impaired. Furthermore, education and training programmes may be insufficiently preparing young workers for hazardous work conditions. The paper notes that the traditional 'control-based' approaches, while well intentioned, are limited in their ability to improve H&S for younger workers. To be more effective, such interventions must do more than simply provide young workers with information and must recognize the diversity of development among young learners and the significance of learning within organizations as a social process. More participatory approaches must be adopted, in which younger workers are engaged and involved.