Examining the Effectiveness of the HR Safety Measures Policy's in Curbing Industrial Accident: A Cases Study of the Construction Sector

The construction industry is one of the most hazardous globally, accounting for significant workplace accidents and fatalities. In Lusaka, Zambia, rapid sector growth has intensified safety concerns due to gaps in the implementation and effectiveness of human resource (HR) safety measures. This study evaluates the effectiveness of HR safety policies in Lusaka’s construction sector, focusing on employee awareness, safety training, and incident reporting. Using Heinrich’s Accident Causation Theory and the Safety Management Systems (SMS) model, the study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys with construction workers and interviews with HR managers and safety officers. Findings reveal substantial gaps in safety awareness, with only 42% of workers familiar with emergency procedures and less than 50% consistently using personal protective equipment (PPE). Although 60% of HR managers reported the existence of safety policies, implementation was inconsistent, hindered by resource constraints and weak regulatory enforcement. Incident reporting systems were underutilized, with only 35% of accidents formally reported due to fear of retaliation and inefficiencies in response. Firms that prioritized regular training and a positive safety culture achieved a 25% reduction in accidents, emphasizing the importance of proactive HR strategies. The study concludes that while progress has been made, significant improvements are needed in training, resource allocation, and policy enforcement to enhance workplace safety.