Structural Equation Modeling of Critical Safety Management Factors in Construction Projects

The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous sectors due to its inherently high-risk environment. This study empirically examines key drivers for effective safety management on construction sites in Lagos State, Nigeria, addressing a gap in context-specific research. Primary safety management drivers were identified from the literature and adapted to the local environment via a structured questionnaire administered to 144 construction professionals, including engineers, architects, quantity surveyors and builders. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) confirmed the contextual relevance of these drivers, which were categorized into leadership and management commitment (MCL), worker awareness and training (AWT), policy and regulatory enforcement (PRE), safety technology and monitoring (STM) and external institutional influence (EII). Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to assess their impact on safety management implementation (SMI). Results showed MCL had the strongest influence, followed by AWT and PRE, highlighting the importance of leadership commitment, training, policies, technological tools and institutional oversight in fostering a safety-oriented culture. These findings provide actionable guidance for construction stakeholders, policymakers and project managers to enhance safety practices, reduce accidents and improve project outcomes. Insights are also relevant to other rapidly urbanizing regions and developing countries facing similar construction risks.