Resilient health and safety performance on construction sites from a safety-II perspective

This study investigated how construction management practices influence resilient health and safety (H&S) performance on construction sites, using a Safety-II perspective. To achieve this objective, data were collected through a case study research method, involving a purposive sample of 32 construction personnel across multiple case studies in the Free State Province, South Africa. The findings reveal that while formal safety management systems and visible managerial engagement exist within the construction sites, resilience depends on dynamic practices that facilitate learning, anticipate risks, and support worker adaptation. Additionally, the findings highlight the critical role of experienced personnel (such as artisans) and structured reflective processes in translating tacit knowledge into organizational learning, bridging the gap between compliance-focused Safety-I approaches and adaptive Safety-II practices. However, this study’s limitations include the focus on a single province for data collection, which restricts the generalizability of the findings to the broader South African construction industry. In addition, the practical application of this study recommends continuous H&S risk conversation, structured reflection, and mentorship programs, supported by a diagnostic framework to evaluate and enhance construction management practices for improved H&S outcomes within the South African construction industry.