Identification of Operational Safety Risks in Block and Brick Production Facilities in Zambia

Purpose: Zambia has witnessed an increase in the number of block and brick production factories. This is attributed to the demand for concrete products such as solid concrete blocks, hollow concrete blocks, pavers, curb stones, concrete blocks, lintel blocks and burnt clay bricks used in construction. Production is both machinery and labour intensive, thereby demanding both skilled and unskilled manpower. The purpose of this study was to identify safety risks attributed to the block and brick production facilities in Zambia. Design/Methodology/Approach: A total of 200 workers were randomly selected from 10 production factories in the Lusaka district of Zambia. Semi structured questionnaires were used in data collection. Respondents to questionnaires included general workers, operators, repairers, factory supervisors and safety officers. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. A chi-square test with p-value < 0.05 as a determinant for statistical significance was used for factors associated with operational safety risks. Findings: Results showed the prevalence of safety risks as common complaints by workers such as coughing (46.2%), phlegm (41.1%), wheezing (36.9%) and sneezing (45.5%), due to dust in factories while dermatitis (60.2%) due to non-utilization of PPEs. The study further revealed that general workers affected by strain were at 88.5%, fatigue at 94.4% and shoulder pains at 89.8%. Provision of PPEs, supervision of workers, safety hazard signage, and regular monitoring by safety enforcers should be enhanced to minimize safety risks. Implications/Research Limitations: The study focused on assessing safety risks and accidents in block and brick production facilities in Zambia with a view of making recommendations on how to minimize its effects. A study on safety risks on construction sites would provide more insight into safety issues relating to concrete products. Practical Implications: By implementing safety controls that reduce the likelihood of accidents and safety hazards in brick and block manufacturing plants, production and productivity will rise because of strong employee morale, low absenteeism, and lower expenses for hospital and medical bills. Originality/Value: Zambia has seen an increase in block making industry, some of which operate on a small scale. The study provides insight into prevalent risks in this industry and recommends measures to mitigate them.