Health and Safety in Construction Industry of Lebanon

A labourer at a construction site is bound to have certain rights, such as, right to return home safe and sound and to be taught how to maintain his and his colleague’s safety against potential hazards and risks associated with his position. Thus, enforcement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards at workplace is essential to prevent the work accidents and harm to labourers. The essence of the requirements and principles of OHS generally involves showing gratitude and respect towards the employee as a human being since he plays a very important role in achieving economical and communal development. The objective of this study is to investigate the status of OHS and its standards in Lebanon. In order to achieve this objective, three different surveys are prepared with the aim of getting sufficient OHS related information from public, employers and labourers. Construction sites, International Labour Organization, engineering union and construction workers union are visited to investigate the matters relating to OHS through meetings with those in charge. In addition, the laws and by-laws related to the OHS are explored and listed. The gathered information is analyzed to interpret the status of OHS in Lebanon. Finally, recommendations towards establishing and enforcing relevant rules to reduce and/or prevent the number of fatalities and injuries among labourers at construction sites, are presented. Keyword: Occupational health and safety in Lebanon, Lebanon Construction Industry, workers rights, standards, accident prevention.