PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING RISK PERCEPTIONS AND SAFETY BEHAVIOR AS PERCEIVED BY SELECTED CONSTRUCTION WORKERS IN CABIAO, NUEVA ECIJA

Abstract

The construction industry has experienced significant growth and advancements, with increased emphasis on improving safety and security for workers, as evidenced by various studies. Globally, construction is recognized as one of the most hazardous sectors, often resulting in fatalities, injuries, and considerable challenges for workers. This study sought to identify the psychological factors influencing risk perception and safety behavior as perceived by construction workers. The study employed a phenomenological research approach to identify psychological factors shaping the risk perception and safety behavior of construction workers. Semi-structured interviews, note-taking, and audio recordings were used to comprehensively capture participants’ insights. A total of fifteen construction workers from Cabiao, Nueva Ecija were selected in accordance with qualitative research standards. The study aimed to address on-site challenges faced by these workers by exploring specific guiding questions. After collecting demographic profiles from the fifteen participants, the findings showed that most were male, within the age range of 41–50 years, had completed high school education, possessed 1–20 years of work experience, were married, and had two to five dependents. The results revealed several psychological factors influencing risk perception and safety behavior on construction sites, including lack of focus, heightened fears, pressure, and accumulated workloads. These factors contributed to issues such as loss of balance, communication breakdowns, workplace difficulties, and conflicts between family responsibilities and work demands. The results revealed that construction workers often overlook workplace hazards, highlighting the need to prioritize both physical and mental health. To improve the accuracy and depth of findings, further exploration of psychological factors affecting risk perception and safety behavior is recommended, including the use of additional and more detailed interview questions for participants.