Examination of occupational health and safety measures on construction sites: The case of Tokat province

This study aims to evaluate the extent to which occupational health and safety measures are implemented in the construction sector, one of Turkey's most significant industries and a major contributor to the national economy, with a particular focus on the province of Tokat. While similar studies exist for various provinces and regions in the current literature, this research seeks to contribute to the literature by examining Tokat, a province that has not yet been the subject of such studies. The scope of the study is limited to the evaluation of occupational health and safety measures implemented at selected construction sites in Tokat. A quantitative research method was employed as the scientific research approach, and a study was conducted with 306 sector employees to represent the population. Fieldwork was carried out at construction sites in Tokat, during which surveys were administered using a face-to-face interview technique with workers, employers, and engineers. The data obtained from the surveys were analyzed to assess the extent of the implementation of occupational health and safety measures, the barriers to their implementation, the level of understanding of these measures among workers, employers, and engineers, and the awareness of employees regarding these issues. In addition, studies from other provinces that are similar to this research were reviewed, and relevant findings from these studies were utilized during the evaluation process. Furthermore, the study examined the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331 and other related regulations as references for the assessment. The findings from the construction sites were compared with these legal frameworks, and recommendations were provided accordingly. The survey questions were formulated based on a review of the relevant literature. The research was concluded with an evaluation of the findings and the presentation of recommendations.