Application of Systems Theoretic Process Analysis and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis to Process Reliability and Occupational Safety and Health in Construction Projects

Abstract

Construction, a leading industry in many countries, contributes greatly to gross domestic product (GDP). In a construction project, several processes must be performed with high reliability and quality, while maintaining the occupational safety and health (OSH) of workers. This paper explores the process reliability and OSH related analysis of the subsystem related to epoxy resin application on concrete structure, using systems theoretic process analysis (STPA), and failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA). The STPA focuses on the hierarchical control structures of a system/subsystem, their unsafe control actions (UCAs), and the causes of the UCAs. Meanwhile, the FMEA emphasizes the potential failures in a system/subsystem, as well as their modes, effects, causes, and ranking. On the subsystem related to epoxy resin application, the two approaches yield complementary results, which can be used in the industry to improve process reliability and OSH.