A Policy Approach to Safety Incentives Implementation for Construction Safety Practices in Developing Countries

The implementation of safety incentives in construction practices is a critical policy issue, particularly in developing countries where the industry is notorious for high risks to worker health and safety (H&S). Research indicates that construction remains one of the most hazardous sectors globally, with significant occupational injuries and fatalities reported annually. Likewise, the prevalence of safety issues leads to thousands of deaths and injuries each year. In developing countries, particularly Nigeria, the frequency of workplace accidents in construction often exceeds international benchmarks, largely due to manual labour and hazardous conditions. This chapter aims to explore the factors driving the implementation of safety incentives from the perspective of construction professionals, thereby enhancing their application within organisations in developing economies. By identifying these drivers through a review of existing literature and subsequent surveys, the research underscores the potential of safety incentives to improve H&S performance, cultivate positive worker attitudes, and boost job satisfaction in the construction industry. Key drivers identified include improved safety performance, effective workforce management, motivating factors, clear goal setting for incentives, assessment procedures for safety incentive key performance indicators (KPIs), and guidelines for budget planning related to safety incentives. The chapter provides measurable policy guidelines for firms, stakeholders and policymakers in the construction industry for the implementation of safety incentives. The study suggests that implementing safety incentives in the construction industry should be based on understanding policies that enhance workplace safety performance, procedures for assessing incentives KPIs, effective budgeting guidelines, and the integration of long-term H&S development plans.. © 2026 selection and editorial matter, Beata Mrugalska, Waldemar Karwowski and Tareq Z. Ahram; individual chapters, the contributors.