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Aboagye-Nimo, E, Jain, M and Chiponde, D B (2025) Bridging the Gap: Integrating Informal and Formal Safety Training in India's Construction Industry. In: Thomson, C (Ed.) and Neilson, C J (Ed.), Proceedings 41st Annual ARCOM Conference, 1-3 September 2025, Abertay University, Dundee, UK. Association of Researchers in Construction Management, 309-318.
- Type: Conference Proceedings
- Keywords: India, informal training, safety culture, unskilled labourers
- ISBN/ISSN: 978-0-9955463-9-4
- URL: http://www.arcom.ac.uk/-docs/proceedings/3ebd93482ad2e9afbfecd333204ef3d5.pdf
- Abstract:
The construction industry in India, employing 51 million workers and contributing 9% to the GDP, faces significant safety challenges, particularly for unskilled labourers who often lack formal health and safety training. This research explores the informal training practices prevalent in the sector, shaped by cultural, economic, and practical realities. Despite the existence of formal safety programmes, many workers depend on informal, peer-led learning acquired through on-the-job experiences. While this method allows for immediate knowledge transfer and fosters communication and camaraderie, it lacks structure, leading to inconsistent safety standards. Based on 10 semi-structured interviews with labourers and supervisors, the study found that safety knowledge is often passed down by experienced workers, some of whom lack formal training themselves. Informal practices help some workers gain clarity, yet others feel uncomfortable raising concerns, highlighting a key risk. Additionally, many projects neglect safety due to the prioritisation of meeting deadlines. The study calls for integrating structured training with existing informal practices to develop a more robust safety culture, reduce workplace accidents, and promote healthier working environments in India’s construction sector.