Benefits of Implementing H&S Practices Among Construction SMMEs in Achieving Workers’ Productivity

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Nomaswazi Nyeleti Malumbete, Justus Ngala Agumba and Oluseyi Julius Adebowale

DOI:

Keywords: Construction SMMEs, Health and Safety, Productivity, Project Supervision, Sustainable Development Goals

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

This study investigates the impact of Health and Safety (H&S) practices on worker productivity within South African construction Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs), addressing a gap in empirical evidence.

DESIGN / APPROACH / METHODOLOGY

A quantitative approach was employed using data from 103 SMMEs engaged in construction projects in Gauteng. Structured questionnaires were used, and the data were analysed using mean scores and multiple linear regression.

FINDINGS

H&S practices were widely perceived as beneficial, contributing to improved worker protection, fewer client complaints, timely project completion, reduced absenteeism, and higher staff retention. A strong positive correlation (r ≈ 0.680, p < 0.01) and a significant predictive relationship were found, with H&S explaining 64.7% of productivity variance. Project H&S communication and supervision emerged as key predictors.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS / IMPLICATIONS

The study is limited to SMMEs in Gauteng and may not reflect experiences in other regions or sectors.

ORIGINAL / VALUE

The findings support the integration of human-centric H&S practices as a driver of operational efficiency and workforce sustainability in construction SMMEs.