THE USE OF EARLY WARNING SYSTEM IN REDUCING COST OF ACCIDENT IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION SITES

Abstract

Early warning systems aim to mitigate the risk produced by disasters, by providing advanced notice of potential risk, it enable individuals, communities, and organisations to take appropriate measures to minimize the potential impact of disasters. Early warning systems a techniques that have been used in many industries to reduce risk in areas that are prone to accidents and disasters. This is a method by which the occupants that are prone to risk and disaster were informed and steps in protecting against disaster were considered and applied. This usually enables them to prepare for any eventuality that may occur as a result of the forecasted disaster. This method has been proposed as the best way to prevent accidents on construction sites. This study therefore surveys the benefits of using EWS on construction sites. 150 questionnaires were designed and distributed purposively to safety experts in ten (10) construction firms in Abuja Nigeria. 120 questionnaires were retrieved given an 80% level of response. The respondents agreed that the use of EWS would reduce the cost of accidents in construction sites by more than 60%. Considering the overwhelming acceptance of the EWS by the safety experts. The study recommends that a framework for the implementation of EWS is a necessity in every site to reduce the cost of accidents.