The impact of procurement on construction health and safety (H&S) in Zimbabwe

Purpose The construction sector’s poor health and safety (H&S) performance is increasingly attributed to inappropriate procurement systems. However, limited research has investigated the key aspects of procurement management that undermine construction H&S hence, the purpose of this study is to identify these aspects that significantly affect construction H&S in Zimbabwe. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was used, involving the completion of a structured questionnaire by 90 construction professionals in Zimbabwe. The collected data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings The study identified seven aspects of procurement management that are perceived to have a significant effect on construction H&S. The top five aspects of procurement management affecting H&S are inadequate inclusion of H&S-specific clauses in contract documents, client-delays to consider H&S until after bidding and specifically during the project execution phase, appointment of designers who neglect worker H&S in their designs, the appointment of contractors who have not fully considered H&S aspects of a project, and inadequate facilitation of financial provision for H&S. Factor analysis revealed two significant factors, namely, procurement method and selection criteria, and contract management of H&S issues. Practical implications The findings highlight the significant impact procurement entities can have on improving construction H&S. Construction industry stakeholders may find the results beneficial, as they identify specific areas to focus on to improve H&S performance through effective procurement strategies. Originality/value The identification of specific procurement functions that require targeted interventions to improve project H&S outcomes significantly contributes to the body of knowledge related to enhancing H&S performance through procurement.