A research synthesis on the interface between lean construction and safety management.

摘要

Applying lean construction to safety management efforts is a promising research area and has been discussed widely in the construction community. Some researchers believe that the reduction of occupational hazards is a naturally occurring effect of the implementation of lean practices. Lean focuses on the reduction of waste and poor safety can be considered a source of waste. To further understand how lean practices affect project safety performance, an interaction matrix between lean construction and safety management practices was developed by performing a research synthesis, which was also validated by conducting structured interviews. The variables analyzed in this interaction matrix were elements from the last planner system and typical lean production tools, for example autonomation and standardization, and the most common safety management practices such as planning and staffing for safety. The interface between lean construction and safety management was systematically analyzed by assessing the conclusions from separate investigations addressing this issue. The results of this research indicate that there is a significant amount of evidence that serves as an aid to recognize the potential synergies when planning for lean and safety strategies. This evidence, along with the results obtained from the analysis of the interaction matrix, can also help to develop and integrate future production and safety management models.