ACCIDENTS ANALYSIS IN CONSTRUCTION ROAD PROJECTS: DETERMINING MEASURES AND SOLUTIONS FOR THE CAUSES OF UTILITY STRIKES

Hadi Sarvari, David J. Edwards, Iain Rillie

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This research investigates utility strikes in construction road projects, identifying their causes and proposing a detailed set of preventive measures. Drawing from 10 UK-based case studies classified as 'dangerous occurrences' (near-misses with significant harm potential) and 'lost time' incidents (events causing work stoppages), purposive sampling was employed to ensure diversity in incident type, utility involved, and project context. Through qualitative analysis using NVivo 12 software, 33 distinct causes were identified, and 40 corresponding measures were developed. These causes and measures were categorised into worker-related domains, such as human error and lack of training, and work-related domains, including equipment failure and poor planning, thereby revealing clear patterns in incident causation. A correlation analysis established links between causes and measures, which formed the foundation for a three-phase Utility Strike Prevention Plan that includes Pre Event, Event, and Post Event stages. This research not only contributes to academic discourse by bridging gaps in existing safety literature but also offers a practical, actionable framework for construction managers, policymakers, and safety officers to enhance project safety, reduce operational disruptions, and protect worker wellbeing.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAssociation of Researchers in Construction Management, ARCOM 2025 - Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference
EditorsCraig Thomson, Christopher J Neilson
PublisherAssociation of Researchers in Construction Management
Pages429-437
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9780995546394
Publication statusPublished - 2025
Event41st Annual Conference on Association of Researchers in Construction Management, ARCOM 2025 - Dundee, United Kingdom
Duration: 1 Sept 20253 Sept 2025

Publication series

NameAssociation of Researchers in Construction Management, ARCOM 2025 - Proceedings of the 41st Annual Conference

Conference

Conference41st Annual Conference on Association of Researchers in Construction Management, ARCOM 2025
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityDundee
Period1/09/253/09/25

Keywords

  • case study
  • cause of incidents
  • measures
  • safety management
  • utility strike

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Management of Technology and Innovation
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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