Integrating Construction Management Practices to Enhance Worker Well-being and Occupational Health in Developing Economies: Evidence from Auchi District, Nigeria

Abstract

The construction industry is a cornerstone of socio-economic
development but remains one of the most hazardous sectors worldwide,
particularly in developing countries. In Nigeria, the persistence of
occupational accidents and health risks is often linked to weak regulatory
enforcement, inadequate safety supervision, and limited use of personal
protective equipment (PPE). This study investigates how construction
management practices influence worker well-being and occupational
health within the Auchi District of Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive
survey design was employed, targeting engineers, supervisors, and
artisans across five major construction firms selected through purposive
sampling. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires
assessing three managerial variables safety supervision, provision of
PPE, and safety training and communication in relation to worker well-
being. Seventy-five valid responses (93.75%) were analyzed using
descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression techniques with
the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.
Findings revealed that manual handling (41.3%) and falls from height
(30.7%) were the most frequent occupational hazards. Regression
analysis demonstrated that construction management practices
collectively accounted for 99.69% of the variance in worker health and
safety outcomes (Adjusted R² = 0.9969). All predictor variables exhibited
significant positive relationships with worker well-being (p < 0.05), with
safety superv
ANOVA results (F = 301.66, p < 0.001) confirmed the overall
significance of the model. The study concludes that proactive managerial
practices particularly consistent supervision, adequate PPE provision,
and regular safety training substantially enhance occupational health and
safety performance. It emphasizes that in contexts where institutional
enforcement is weak, managerial leadership serves as the most effective
mechanism for improving safety culture. Strengthening compliance
frameworks and integrating formal safety management systems such as
ISO 45001 are recommended to achieve sustainable, worker-centered
construction development aligned with the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals 3 and 8.