TITLE:
Management of Biohazards and Pandemics: COVID-19 and Its Implications in the Construction Sector
AUTHORS:
Chiemela Victor Amaechi, Ebube Charles Amaechi, Sharon Chinyere Amechi, Abiodun Kolawole Oyetunji, Irish Mpho Kgosiemang, Okechukwu John Mgbeoji, Adesola Samson Ojo, Alejandro Moure Abelenda, Mohamed Milad, Ibitoye Adelusi, Akinwale Oladotun Coker
KEYWORDS:
Pandemic, Biohazard, Biological Hazard, Biohazard Control, Construction, COVID19, Corona Virus, SARS-CoV, Hazard, Health and Safety, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
JOURNAL NAME:
Computational Water, Energy, and Environmental Engineering,
Vol.11 No.1,
January
28,
2022
ABSTRACT: This paper investigates the impact of biohazards and pandemics on construction workers’ health
and well-being. A proper selection of control methods for biohazards and
pandemics like COVID-19 pandemic will result in improved public health
conditions. Occupational risks in the construction industry are also examined,
with a focus on biohazards and pandemics, their containment, and the
implications for health and safety. A safer work environment in the
construction industry is encouraged. In this study, some statistical methods
were used to analyse the data obtained from sampled questionnaire.
According to the findings, fewer people in poor developing countries
get routine check-ups compared to developed countries. The construction
industries studied have little or no insurance plans for staff. It also
demonstrates that personal protective equipment (PPE) such as nasal masks,
helmets, hand gloves, and work aprons can assist in the control of biohazards
in the construction sector, such as asthma, cancer, and asbestosis. There
should be safety awareness programmes, conferences, and seminars, as well as
first-aid kits and HSE and qualified health workers on all building sites. In
addition, the government should examine the site for the usage of PPEs and
verify that records of family/personal medical history are maintained.