Safety Management Practices and Safety Performance on Road Construction Projects in Uganda: A Case of Busega- Mpigi Expressway (23.7km)

Abstract

Background and Purpose: This study examined the relationship between safety management practices and safety performance on the Mpigi-Busega Express Highway road construction project. It focused on safety compliance, safety training, and safety participation. Methodology: The study adopted a cross-sectional mixed-methods design. Data were collected from project personnel using questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and documentary review of Health, Safety and Environment records. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation and multiple regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Findings: The findings revealed positive and statistically significant relationships between safety performance and safety compliance (r = .782, p < .001), safety training (r = .832, p < .001) and safety participation (r = .732, p < .001). Together, the three practices explained 86.3% of the variation in safety performance. Safety compliance made the largest unique contribution in the combined regression model, followed by safety training and safety participation. Conclusion: The study concluded that effective safety compliance, continuous safety training, and meaningful worker participation are important for improving safety performance in road construction. However, gaps in the consistent enforcement of safety requirements, ongoing training, and worker feedback remain areas requiring improvement. Recommendations: The study recommends strengthening safety inspections and enforcement, introducing continuous refresher training and practical assessments, and establishing structured worker participation and feedback mechanisms.