From Home to Site: How Family–Work Conflict Influences Construction Workers’ Safety through Thriving and Workplace Anxiety

Drawing on conservation of resources theory and the work–home resources model, this study examines the dual-path effects of family–work conflict on construction workers’ safety behaviors through the mediating mechanisms of thriving at work and workplace anxiety. Specifically, we explore how family–work conflict impacts safety behaviors via these specific psychological (reduced thriving) and emotional (increased anxiety) pathways. In addition, we also hypothesize coworker safety support as a moderating factor that buffers the negative effects of family–work conflict on safety behaviors. Using a three-wave survey design, we collected data from 208 frontline Chinese construction workers. The findings revealed that family–work conflict indirectly undermines safety behaviors through its detrimental effects on thriving at work and workplace anxiety. Notably, coworker safety support mitigates these negative impacts, underscoring its role as a compensatory resource. The research advances theoretical understanding of the antecedents of safety behavior and offers actionable insights for fostering supportive safety climates and family-friendly organizational practices to enhance workplace safety in the construction sector.