Effects of safety training and accident experience on construction workers’ safety behavior

Abstract

Background

Although prior studies have thoroughly investigated the effects of safety training on construction workers’ safety behaviors, the role of prior accident experience has received comparatively less attention within this domain.

Objective

This study seeks to evaluate the influence of construction safety training on workers’ safety behaviors, exploring the mediating roles of safety knowledge and safety motivation, as well as the potential moderating effect of accident experience.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 1026 workers from 53 construction sites spanning 12 provinces.

Results

Findings demonstrate that safety training enhances workers’ safety knowledge, motivation, compliance, and participation. Notably, safety knowledge significantly predicts safety participation, whereas safety motivation predominantly influences safety compliance. Furthermore, safety knowledge and motivation serve as mediators in the relationship between safety training and safety compliance. Workers with prior accident experience exhibit lower levels of safety knowledge and motivation compared to those without such experiences, yet they demonstrate elevated levels of safety compliance and participation. However, accident experience does not significantly moderate the association between safety training and safety behavior.

Conclusions

Safety training should be mandatory for all workers prior to site deployment. For individuals with prior accident experiences, customized training and support services are essential to address their specific needs.