Construction risk management through preventive safety tool: a comparative analysis of regulatory framework and trends

Rozaida, Zainudin (2026) Construction risk management through preventive safety tool: a comparative analysis of regulatory framework and trends. Master dissertation/thesis, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study examines the role of preventive safety tools in enhancing construction risk management through a comparative analysis of regulatory frameworks and emerging research trends, with particular emphasis on Malaysia’s Occupational Safety and Health (Construction Work) (Design and Management) Regulations 2024. Adopting a bibliometric analysis approach using Scopus-indexed publications (1991–2026), the study analyses 191 documents to identify publication trends, thematic evolution and knowledge gaps in design-stage safety practices. The findings indicate a clear global shift from reactive, site-based safety management toward proactive, design-driven approaches such as Design Review Assessment, Prevention through Design and Design for Safety, supported by digital technologies including Building Information Modelling. A comparative regulatory analysis of Malaysia, Singapore and the United Kingdom reveal significant disparities in legislative structure, duty-holder responsibilities and enforcement mechanisms, with more mature systems demonstrating stronger integration of design-stage risk management. Despite Malaysia’s regulatory advancements, key challenges persist, including limited stakeholder awareness, insufficient technical capacity and weak alignment between regulatory intent and industry practice. The study highlights the need for stronger institutional support, standardised implementation frameworks and enhanced integration of digital tools to operationalise preventive safety effectively. Overall, the research contributes to bridging the gap between theory, regulation, practice and supports the development of a more proactive, design-oriented safety culture within the construction industry. Keywords: Construction, Occupational Safety and Health, Risk Management, Design for Safety, Preventive Safety Tool, Regulatory Framework, Regulatory Trend Subject area: K720-792 Property, K3661-3674 Public safety, K85-89 Legal research, K(520)-5582 Comparative law. International uniform law

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