Publication
Briefing: A framework for integrating health, safety and well-being into labour-only procurement
Publisher:
Thomas Telford Ltd.
Date:
11-2021
DOI:
10.1680/JMAPL.20.00010
Abstract: The attributes of a successful project are well-documented in the literature, including the roles of health and safety in procurement. However, integrating health and safety strategies into a labour-only procurement system (LoPS) has remained a challenge in practice and has received only a little attention in research. This study proposes measurable strategies for integrating health, safety and well-being (HS& W) into LoPS, towards improving productivity and project outcomes. The study emphasises that HS& W will improve in LoPS projects relative to contractors’ self-regulation of their HS& W culture. In addition, HS& W benefits LoPS when project stakeholders collaborate seamlessly and deploy integrated tools that support HS& W. This also includes optimising shared decision protocols involving project owners and contractors regarding materials and subcontractor selection, whereby HS& W is a critical decision parameter. Through the framework proposed in this study, stakeholders and future studies should be able to improve their understanding of the cost of HS& W and the social benefits of LoPS, particularly to developing economies around the world.