The impact of procurement on construction health and safety (H&S) in Zimbabwe

Purpose – The construction sector's poor health and safety (H&S) performance is increasingly attributed to inappropriate procurement systems. However, limited research has investigated the key aspects of procurement management that undermine construction H&S hence, the purpose of this study is to identify these aspects that significantly affect construction H&S in Zimbabwe. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative research approach was used, involving the completion of a structured questionnaire by 90 construction professionals in Zimbabwe. The collected data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings – The study identified seven aspects of procurement management that are perceived to have a significant effect on construction H&S. The top five aspects of procurement management affecting H&S are inadequate inclusion of H&S-specific clauses in contract documents, client-delays to consider H&S until after bidding and specifically during the project execution phase, appointment of designers who neglect worker H&S in their designs, the appointment of contractors who have not fully considered H&S aspects of a project, and inadequate facilitation of financial provision for H&S. Factor analysis revealed two significant factors, namely, procurement method and selection criteria, and contract management of H&S issues. Practical implications – The findings highlight the significant impact procurement entities can have on improving construction H&S. Construction industry stakeholders may find the results beneficial, as they identify specific areas to focus on to improve H&S performance through effective procurement strategies. Originality/value – The identification of specific procurement functions that require targeted interventions to improve project H&S outcomes significantly contributes to the body of knowledge related to enhancing H&S performance through procurement.