Implications of occupational hazards on attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals in the Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were framed to provide solutions to challenges confronting humanity. The SDGs are interconnected and will require the efforts of individuals and different sectors of the economy for attainment. One of the goals of the SDGs is to ensure good health and promote well-being for all by 2030. Sectors such as construction have high incidence of occupational hazards which affect the wellbeing of operatives in the industry. This paper reports the findings from a survey of 100 craftsmen in Lagos, Nigeria. Data obtained through the survey were evaluated by means of frequencies and charts. The study showed that majority of the craftsmen surveyed suffered one form of health challenge or the other. Occupational hazards drain the resources of workers. It also leads to absenteeism, low productivity and poor project performance. On a national scale, occupational hazards increase disease burden which is an additional cost to government spending on health care. The findings have negative implications on the attainment of goals 1 (no poverty), goal 3 (health and wellbeing) and goal 8 (decent work). Findings from the research can be used to create policies on occupational safety and compliance on construction sites.