Transforming Construction Risk Management through Digital Tools: A Case Study from Ghana

Abstract

The construction industry increasingly recognises digital tools' transformative potential in managing and mitigating risks. Like many developing countries, Ghana's construction industry has various risks, including health and safety hazards, technological failures, and supply chain disruptions. These risks can lead to project delays, cost overruns, and safety incidents. While digital tools offer a promising avenue for mitigating these risks, their adoption and impact in Ghana remain under-researched. This study investigates the potential of digital tools in mitigating construction risks in Ghana, focusing on the perceptions and experiences of construction professionals in the Cape Coast region. A purposive sample of 78 construction professionals in Cape Coast, including project managers, site engineers, and safety officers, was surveyed using a close-ended online questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Relative Importance Index (RII) to rank the significance of various factors and benefits using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The study identified "health and safety risks" and "technological failures" as the most critical concerns for construction professionals. Using digital tools was perceived as highly influential in completing projects on time and within budget. Improved regulatory compliance and productivity were identified as the most significant benefits of digital tools, while improved worksite safety, though acknowledged, ranked lower in priority. The findings underscore the potential of digital tools to revolutionise construction risk management in Ghana and the need for greater awareness and education regarding the safety-enhancing capabilities of these tools. It is recommended that stakeholders invest in digital solutions, prioritise training programs, and consider cost-effective options suitable for the Ghanaian context. Future research could expand the geographical scope and include more diverse perspectives to refine further and implement digital risk management strategies in the construction sector.