A multifaceted approach to enhance safety performance of a commercial construction company

The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous work environments globally, marked by high injury and fatality rates despite evolving regulatory frameworks and safety interventions. In New Zealand, the sector accounted for over 400 notifiable incidents in the first eight months of 2023 alone. This study examines the implementation and effectiveness of strategies for enhancing safety performance at a commercial construction company in Auckland, which has over three decades of operational experience. Using a qualitative case study methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with senior professionals and through the analysis of internal safety documentation. Findings suggest that proactive safety management, leadership engagement, and ongoing training are crucial to enhancing safety outcomes. The company’s emphasis on near-miss reporting and compliance monitoring has resulted in a measurable reduction in incidents and a rise in safety compliance. Key challenges include human error, documentation overload, and the need for culturally inclusive communication strategies. The study underscores the importance of integrating behavioural safety, inclusive training, and leadership-driven safety culture in construction environments. Insights contribute to the broader literature on construction safety, offering actionable guidance for industry practitioners and policymakers seeking to enhance safety performance.