USE OF VISUAL COMMUNICATION TOOLS FOR SAFE WORK PRACTICES IN CONSTRUCTION SITES IN BENIN CITY

This study examines the use of visual communication tools for safe work practices in construction sites in Benin City. The research explored three objectives; Assessing the level of use of visual communication tools for safe work practices on construction sites, investigating the challenges affecting the use of visual communication tools for safe work practices and examining the effects of visual communication tools on safe work practices in Benin City, Edo State. All three objectives used the mean item score as the method of analysis. The target population for this research comprises stakeholders and participants directly involved in the construction industry within Benin City, Edo State. These include professionals such as architects, engineers, builders, health & safety officers and quantity surveyors. A total of 169 questionnaires were filled from an anticipated sample size of 300. The study revealed that the level of use of visual communication tools varies considerably across construction projects in Benin City. Among the tools assessed, Safety Signs and Symbols (MIS = 4.72) ranked the highest, followed by Colour-Coded Labels (MIS = 4.51) and Floor Markings (MIS = 4.40). The most significant challenge was Limited Budget (MIS = 4.52), followed by Management Indifference (MIS = 4.32) and Lack of Training (MIS = 4.20). The strongest effects of visual communication tools on safe work practices were, Improves Hazard Recognition (MIS = 4.67), Enhances Compliance with Safety Rules (MIS = 4.41), and Reduces Accident Frequency (MIS = 4.29). Generally, the study concludes that visual communication tools play a crucial role in promoting safety culture on construction sites, and their integration especially digital innovations should be strengthened through better funding, management commitment, and worker training.