The use of gamification in safety training for construction workers: evidence from Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Gamification has a long-term effect on safety training for workers based on the lasting impact on memory and retention through simulation and inclusiveness in training activities to check of safety measures on-site. While the knowledge and application of gamification continually expands as a training measure in the construction industry, its application in Nigeria is still largely understudied. Therefore, this study investigates its use in safety training measure amongst construction experts within the context in Lagos State Nigeria. The study revealed that the application of gamification in the construction industry is beneficial for employees in the construction field as it enhances efficiency in operations and task delivery. The design method of research adopted is the quantitative methodology which considers the positivist method to ensure that the numerical data in research in general is scientific and analyzed with scientific tools and approaches. 0.839 Cronbach's Alpha score reliability test was applied to data and 0.839 score was achieved which shows high level of data reliability. The study found that the knowledge on gamification in the construction industry is Nigeria is higher among the high-ranking experts involved in training activities who are responsible for encouraging firms to adopt this approach as an effective training tool. Although the lower ranking experts who are more exposed to accident hazards are knowledgeable in theoretical safety training, hence, the call for gamification to be included as training tool for all employees due to its associated benefits in enhancing efficiency since gamification is seen to be an effective addition to safety training in construction. The implication of this study is the revealed opportunities to tailor gamified training to specific roles and associated hazard on project sites which could further influence safety regulations and training requirement in the construction industry.