Digital Safety Transformation in South Africa’s Petrochemical Construction: Systematic Review of Opportunities, Barriers, and Organisational Readiness

The South African petrochemical construction sector operates within a high-risk environment that demands rigorous safety management practices. At the same time, digital transformation is reshaping construction operations, offering both opportunities and challenges for improving safety performance. This study systematically reviewed 15 peer-reviewed articles identified through the Scopus database and evaluated using the PRISMA framework, supplemented by relevant industry reports, to ensure methodological transparency and reliability. A bibliometric analysis was also applied to map the current state of research and highlight key thematic trends. The review indicates that digital innovations such as predictive analytics, real-time monitoring systems, immersive training platforms, and data-driven compliance tools can significantly enhance hazard prevention, decision-making, and overall safety culture. However, challenges persist, particularly around organisational readiness, digital literacy, and resistance to cultural change, which may limit the effective implementation of these technologies. The findings suggest that a phased and inclusive digital transformation strategy integrating technological solutions with workforce engagement, training, and alignment to organisational objectives is critical for sustainable safety improvement in the sector. The study contributes to knowledge by synthesising fragmented research, offering a framework for understanding the dual opportunities and barriers in digital safety transformation, and providing practical recommendations for industry stakeholders.