Construction-related occupational exposures; a challenge to sustainable development

Introduction
Construction is globally recognized as a very hazardous industry, with numerous tragic work-related accidents, injuries and illnesses befalling this transient, unique, and complex industry annually. Apart from hazardous tasks and conditions such as work at height, excavations, confined spaces, electricity, machines and equipment, construction workers also face the risk of exposure to biological, chemical, mechanical and physical hazards e.g. dust, noise, debris, asbestos, smoke, exhaust fumes, hazardous chemicals and other harmful substances, which over the course of time can cause serious permanent injuries.

Methods
The OSH department in evaluating this construction safety aspect conducted a casestudy on a reputable construction company constructing Bujjagali Hydropower Dam. The HSE records of this firm were studied for the years between 2008 and 2010.
Of particular interest were the Health Service / Surveillance, Medical Examinations and First Aid records. The findings were collated, statistics compiled and the data analysed, with intention to devise the necessary interventions to effectively address the problem.

Results
Study results include quantification of the lost time and affected workers. During the study period, approximately 30% of the company’s workforce, registered some form of occupational exposure at the company clinic compared to the 20% that had got occupational accidents and injuries. Of the lost time recorded within the firm, over 50% was due to occupational diseases whereas less than 50% was due to occupational accidents and injuries.

Discussion
Risks arising from regular occupational exposure do not produce Injuries immediately and some time must elapse before the onset of symptoms. This combined with other worker injuries and fatalities has financial implications, which significantly influence the economic vitality of the individual and the firm, thus sustainability over the long term. Findings of this study indicate the need to protect safety and health of construction workers and the facility users, which would then translate into project sustainability.