ABSTRACT
In this chapter the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is explored, and it is argued that occupational health and safety (OH&S) is an essential component of CSR, as employees, including subcontractors, are key stakeholders whose interests must be accommodated by construction organisations. The moral dimension of OH&S is highlighted, and the provision of a healthy and safe work environment as a basic human right is motivated. It is argued that construction organisations need to develop organisational cultures that are ethical and supportive of OH&S. Furthermore, it is suggested that evolving such cultures requires more than the establishment of formal OH&S management systems, and that OH&S must become an embedded value and part of the organisational culture. Consequently, the need for employees at all levels in construction organisations to demonstrate leadership in OH&S and be held accountable for their OH&S actions is discussed. This is followed by the motivation for the regarding of ‘at risk’ behaviour as universally unacceptable, and the establishment of new criteria for project performance in the form of ‘zero injuries and illnesses’. The practice of construction organisations taking increased responsibility for OH&S in the supply chain, and adopting socially responsible buying and contracting practices is discussed. The responsibility of construction organisations for workers, who are injured or have become ill as a result of their work, and the industry’s appalling performance in the important area of occupational rehabilitation, are also discussed. A case study of Australian building products company, James Hardie Industries, highlights the possible consequences arising from public censure of an organisation’s failure to take responsibility for workers whose health is affected by work. It is contended that OH&S performance should be reported alongside other social performance indicators by construction organisations in annual reports, and that ‘Triple Bottom Line’ reporting should be considered. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the role of construction educators in inculcating an ‘OH&S ethic’ among future built-environment practitioners.
