A Study on Occupational Health and Safety Practices in the Construction of Multistoried Buildings in Nepal: A Case Study of Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

This study demonstrates that most construction sites in the Kathmandu City have not fully implemented safety plans. Hazardous areas often lack warning signs, and the use of personal protective equipment by workers is inconsistent. Roles and responsibilities related to occupational health and safety are unclear at almost all sites, with only a few having designated safety officers. A major concern is the communication gap between employers, supervisors, and workers, which hampers effective safety practices. Fall arrest systems are poorly managed, with many sites lacking toe-boards in hazardous zones. Electrical and fire safety trainings for employees are also inadequate. Control measures for noise, dust, and chemical hazards are insufficient, and ergonomic risks are widely overlooked. No site has established proper emergency preparedness or response programs, and health management plans are generally absent. Most sites lack medical facilities, and there is limited attention to protecting nearby communities from construction-related noise and dust. Overall, regulatory compliance is inconsistent. The study underscores the urgent need for stronger safety planning, effective regulation enforcement, and improved safety training and communication. Developing comprehensive, evidence-based, and context-specific guidelines is essential to improving occupational health and safety at construction sites.