Development of a safety oriented framework for fall prevention in construction projects using smart PLS-SEM analysis

The construction industry continues to face significant risks associated with fall-from-height (FFH) incidents, despite advances in safety protocols and technologies. This study identifies and empirically validates critical safety factors influencing PPE adoption and fall prevention on infrastructure projects through an integrated conceptual framework. A systematic literature review was conducted to extract eight Critical Success Factors (CSFs), followed by data acquisition. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the relationships between safety constructs including management commitment, equipment quality, operator risk, employee awareness, and regulatory compliance were examined. A total of 33 observable variables were evaluated across five latent domains. The model explained 96% of the variance in safety adoption behaviour, with operator-related issues exerting the strongest influence. This study identifies and empirically validates critical safety factors influencing fall-from-height (FFH) prevention, with PPE adoption examined as one dimension within a broader safety framework. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the relationships between safety constructs including management commitment, equipment quality, operator risk, employee awareness, and regulatory compliance were examined. Findings affirm that PPE quality alone may be insufficient without concurrent emphasis on human and institutional dynamics.