Psychosocial Determınants of Risk Perceptıon in Constructıon Workers: A Cultural and Ethical Assessment

Abstract

The construction industry is a high-risk workplace due to inherent hazards and variable working conditions. How workers perceive these risks is a multidimensional process shaped by technical safety measures as well as psychosocial, cultural, and ethical factors. This study examines the fundamental psychosocial dynamics that determine construction workers’ risk perception and takes a comprehensive approach to the impact of cultural norms, societal values, organizational relationships, and ethical attitudes on safety behavior. The findings demonstrate that risk perception is strongly determined by the cultural structure and social environment within which workers operate, beyond the level of individual awareness. “Fatalism,” “norms of masculinity,” the “master-apprentice hierarchy,” economic concerns, and production pressures stand out as the primary cultural factors that increase risk-taking. In addition, lack of communication, insecure leadership, low ethical standards, psychological burnout, and a weak sense of belonging are critical psychosocial factors that negatively impact compliance with safety regulations. The study also reveals that ethical values play a central role in strengthening risk perception. Respect for workers, fair management, and embracing safety measures as an ethical responsibility increase the capacity to develop safe behavior. Consequently, the need for holistic strategies that go beyond technical measures and include cultural and psychosocial dimensions for sustainable occupational safety is emphasized.