Announcements

Academy Documents

Kindly access the Students' Policies & Forms by clicking on the button below. The following documents, among others, can be found there: Student Handbook, Student Code of Conduct, Students' Privacy Notice, Deferral, Suspension, and Cancellation Policy, Assignment Extension Policy, Re-Sit Policy, Complaints Procedure Policy, Equality Policy, and Student Disciplinary Policy.

Students' Policies & Forms

Online Sessions' Link

To join the online sessions for this module, please click on the button below. If you are not already signed in to your Zoom account, you will be prompted to register your attendance. You will also need to enter the password provided below.

Join Session

Meeting ID: 858 4523 6553
Passcode: 153291

Please ensure that your name and surname appear as registered for the study programme, as this is essential for recording your attendance.

Lecture Schedule & Notes

Lecture notes will be available during the week following the respective lecture. Schedule dates are indicative and may change. All changes, if any, may be communicated via email, SMS or telephone calls.

Lecturers 

Ms Katia Fenech

Lecture Summaries & Suggested Reading

Lecture 1 - Health & Safety in Construction: Risks, Hazards, & Legislation Overview

Following this session students will be given:

• A clear understanding of the importance of health and safety in construction, highlighting the high-risk nature of the industry. It provides an overview of common hazards, such as falls, electrical risks, and machinery-related dangers. The lecture also introduces the fundamental legislation LN 88 of 2018.

The below learning objectives will be covered.

• Recognise potential hazards in construction sites.
• Composing of relevant legislation, regulations, and standards related to construction

Core Reading List

• https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2018/88/eng
• https://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/managing-essentials/assess-the-risks.htm
• HSE (2015) Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. HSE Books.

Lecture 2 - Advanced Construction Hazards & Risk Assessment Techniques

This session delves deeper into specific construction hazards, exploring their causes, potential consequences, and the likelihood of occurrence. The lecture emphasises the significance of risk assessments in identifying and evaluating these hazards. Methodologies for assessing risks, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, are introduced, alongside case studies illustrating their application.

The below learning objectives will be covered.

• Formulating different types of construction hazards, such as falls, electrical hazards, machinery-related risks, hazardous substances, etc.
• Setting up risk assessment methodologies and techniques used in the construction industry.

Core Reading List

• Health and Safety Authority, Understanding Construction Risk Assessments
• Health and Safety Executive, Construction Safety Topics 

Lecture 3 - Legal Responsibilities & Compliance in Construction Safety

The legal responsibilities of construction professionals are explored in this lecture, focusing on compliance with safety laws and regulations. Key topics include the development and implementation of safety procedures, the role of safety officers, and the legal implications of non-compliance.

The below learning objectives will be covered.

• Design and produce safety procedures to ensure compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.

Core Reading List

• LN36 of 2003
• Chapter 424 of the Laws of Malta

Lecture 4 - Comprehensive Guide to Construction Risk Assessments & Techniques

Following this session students will be given:

• A comprehensive guide to conducting risk assessments on construction sites. Various risk assessment techniques, such as a dynamic risk assessment, last minute risk assessment, an documented risk assessment. The lecture also covers the steps involved in hazard identification, risk evaluation, and the documentation of findings. Practical exercises are included to reinforce these concepts.

The below learning objectives will be covered

• Ability to organise thorough hazard identification and risk assessments in construction environments.
• Coordinate risk assessments to determine the level of risk associated with specific construction activities.

Core Reading List

• Managing risk and risk assessment at work HSE

Lecture 5 - Implementing Effective Control Measures in Construction Safety

This session focuses on the development and implementation of control measures to manage construction hazards. The hierarchy of controls—elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE)—is introduced. The lecture provides examples of effective control measures for common construction hazards and discusses their role in reducing risk.

The below learning objectives will be covered

• Construct and plan effective control measures to mitigate construction-related hazards.
• Proficiency in constructing and planning control measures to minimize or eliminate construction-related risks.

Core Reading List

• Manu P (2023) Handbook of Construction Safety, Health and Well-being in the Industry 4.0 Era. Routledge.

Lecture 6 - The Critical Role of PPE in Construction Safety

The importance of PPE in protecting workers from construction hazards is highlighted in this lecture. Different types of PPE, including hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, and protective footwear, are discussed. The lecture also covers the selection criteria for PPE, proper usage, and maintenance practices to ensure maximum effectiveness.

The below learning objectives will be covered.

• Propose the personal protective equipment (PPE) and its appropriate usage.

Core Reading List

• LN 121 of 2003

Lecture 7 - Proactive Safety Management Systems in Construction

This lecture explores the role of safety management systems (SMS) in promoting a proactive approach to construction safety. Key components of an SMS, such as policy development, planning, implementation, monitoring, and review, are discussed. The lecture also examines how these systems integrate with other management processes to enhance overall project safety.

The below learning objectives will be covered

• Generating safety management systems and their application in construction projects.

Core Reading List

• Rowlinson S (2004) Construction Safety Management Systems. Routledge

Supplementary Reading List

• Health and safety management systems: Overview - HSE

Lecture 8 - Building a Strong Safety Culture in Construction

The concept of safety culture and its significance in preventing accidents and incidents on construction sites is the focus of this lecture. Strategies for fostering a positive safety culture, including leadership commitment, worker engagement, and continuous training, are discussed. The lecture also emphasizes the role of communication in building and maintaining a strong safety culture.

The below learning objectives will be covered:

• Generate a safety culture and raise awareness among workers and management regarding construction hazards and risk control.

Core Reading List

• Safety culture in the construction industry as part of supply chain governance

Lecture 9 - Designing & Delivering Effective Safety Training in Construction

This lecture covers the design and delivery of effective safety training programs tailored to construction workers and management. Topics include the identification of training needs, the development of training content, and the use of various instructional methods. The lecture also discusses the importance of continuous learning and refresher training to keep safety knowledge up-to-date.

The below learning objectives will be covered:

• Effective communication skills to deliver safety training and promote safety awareness among workers and management.

Core Reading List

• How to Improve Workplace Safety Communication (canadasafetytraining.com)

Lecture 10 - Incident Investigation & Reporting Best Practices in Construction

The focus of this lecture is on the procedures and best practices for investigating and reporting incidents on construction sites. The lecture covers the steps involved in incident investigation, from immediate response to root cause analysis. It also discusses the importance of accurate reporting for legal compliance, learning from incidents, and preventing future occurrences

The below learning objectives will be covered

• Solving incident investigation and reporting.

Core Reading List

• Investigating accidents and incidents: A workbook for employers, unions, safety representatives and safety professionals HSG245 (hse.gov.uk)

Lecture 11 - Enhancing Construction Safety Through Effective Data Management

This session emphasises the role of data management in construction safety. It covers the collection, storage, and analysis of safety data, including incident reports, inspection records, and risk assessments. The lecture also discusses how data can be used to identify trends, monitor the effectiveness of safety measures, and inform decision-making.

The following learning objectives will be covered:

• Ability to produce and manage safety data to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Core Reading List

• Occupational safety and health in Europe: state and trends 2023

Lecture 12 - Advanced Risk Control Strategies: Leveraging Technology for Hazard Detection and Management

This lecture introduces advanced risk control strategies, including the use of technology in hazard detection and control. Topics such as real-time monitoring, automated safety systems, and the use of drones and wearables in risk management are discussed. The lecture also covers the integration of these technologies into existing safety management systems.

The below learning objectives will be covered.

• Proficiency in constructing and planning control measures to minimize or eliminate construction-related risks.
• Construct and plan effective control measures to mitigate construction-related hazards

Core Reading List

• Curley T. (2006). The construction safety handbook. Oak Tree Press. Hill DC (2014)

Lecture 13 - Case Studies in Construction Risk Assessment and Safety Management

This lecture uses real-world case studies to illustrate the application of risk assessments, control measures, and safety procedures in construction projects. The selected case studies highlight successes and failures in construction safety, providing valuable lessons on the importance of thorough planning and execution. The lecture also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving through the analysis of these cases.

The below learning objectives will be covered:

• Apply knowledge of risk assessments, control measures, and safety procedures in real-world scenarios.

Core Reading List

• Smith NJ (2014) Managing Risk in Construction Projects, 3rd Edition. Wiley-Blackwell

Lecture 14 - Health and Safety Auditing in Construction

Following this session students will be:

• Equipped to conduct comprehensive safety audits, identify compliance gaps, and develop actionable recommendations for improvement. They will learn to analyse findings, communicate results effectively to stakeholders, and promote a culture of continuous improvement

The below learning objectives will be covered:

• Explain the fundamental principles and objectives of health and safety auditing specific to construction sites.
• Recognise areas of non-compliance with health and safety regulations and standards applicable to construction.
• Formulate actionable recommendations to address deficiencies and enhance safety performance in construction environments.
• Design strategies for implementing corrective actions and monitoring their effectiveness in construction settings.
• Measure and evaluate the impact of health and safety audits on improving workplace safety outcomes in construction environments.

Core Reading List

• Rowlinson S (2004) Construction Safety Management Systems. Routledge.

Lecture 15 - Confined space Entry hazards in construction sites

Following this session students will be given:

• Knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and manage the unique risks associated with confined space entry in the construction industry. This includes understanding the potential hazards such as oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, and physical entrapment, and applying appropriate control measures like atmospheric testing, ventilation, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

The below are the learning objectives to be covered:

• Identify Confined Spaces: Recognise confined space characteristics and hazards.
• Understand Hazards: Learn about atmospheric, physical, and biological risks.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct assessments to evaluate potential hazards.
• Safety Procedures: Understand entry protocols and permit requirements.

Core Reading List

• LN 41 of 2004 - WORK PLACE (MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR WORK) CONFINED SPACES

Lecture 16 - Human Factors Safety in construction

Following this session students will be given:

• Knowledge about the identification of the key human factors (such as stress, fatigue, perception, and cognitive biases) that influence safety performance and increase the likelihood of unsafe actions in construction environments. Understand how psychological and cultural factors, such as group dynamics, peer pressure, and cultural norms, affect safety perceptions and compliance on construction sites.

The below are the learning objectives to be covered:

• Understand human factors
• Effective communication techniques to enhance teamwork and safety awareness.
• Learn strategies to promote safe behaviours and attitudes among construction workers.
• Understand the impact of fatigue on performance and strategies to mitigate its effects.

Core Reading List

• AMT Handbook Addendum: Human Factors

Lecture 17 - Hazardous Substances and Chemical Risk Management

Following this session students will be given:

• Knowledge about the management and the storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and substances (e.g., asbestos, solvents, and paints) in compliance with safety regulations, preventing health risks and environmental damage.

The below are the learning objectives to be covered:

• Interpret MSDS and other labelling requirements to understand the hazards and safe handling procedures for chemicals.
• Create safe work procedures for handling and using hazardous substances in construction settings.
• Develop and deliver training programs on chemical safety and risk management for workers in the construction industry

Core Reading List

• Controlling hazardous substances

Lecture 18 - Emergency and Medical Response on Construction sites

Following this session students will:

• Develop an understanding of basic first aid and emergency medical response procedures for construction-related injuries. Identify the equipment, supplies, and training necessary to provide immediate medical assistance on construction sites.

The below are the learning objectives to be covered:

• Identify common emergencies that may occur on construction sites.
• Understand the components of an effective emergency response plan.
• Learn essential first aid techniques and procedures relevant to construction injuries.

Core Reading List

• LN 11 of 2002 - Malta - Work Place (First Aid) Regulations, 2002

Lecture 19 - Waste Management and Pollution Control

Following this session students will be given:

• Knowledge about the managing various types of construction waste, including hazardous materials. They will develop skills to implement effective waste segregation, recycling, and disposal strategies that comply with environmental regulations. Students will also explore pollution control measures to assess and mitigate risks related to air, water, and soil contamination. By the end of the course, they will be equipped to design sustainable waste management systems that enhance safety and reduce environmental impact in the construction industry.

The below are the learning objectives to be covered:

• Identify various types of construction waste, including hazardous materials.
• Understand key regulations governing waste management and pollution control.
• Develop effective waste reduction, recycling, and disposal strategies.
• Propose techniques to minimize waste and reduce pollution.

Core Reading List

• Classify different types of waste
• Dispose of business or commercial waste

Lecture 20 - Course Review and Assessment: Mastering Construction Safety Practices

The final lecture is a comprehensive review of all the topics covered throughout the course. It includes a summary of key concepts, such as hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, and safety management. The lecture also includes an assessment component, where students can demonstrate their understanding of the course material through exams or practical exercises. The session concludes with a discussion on the continuous importance of health and safety in construction and the evolving nature of safety practices.

The below learning objectives will be covered:

• Comprehensive review of all learning outcomes.

Methods of Assessment

Self-Assessment (15% of final grade): Students are required to complete a multiple-choice test during the first lecture of the module on 2nd October 2023. The test sheet and answers will be provided in an additional 30-minute session on the day the assessment presentation is scheduled to be delivered. Students will be expected to mark their own submissions.

Assignment (60% of final grade)

Presentation (25% of final grade)

Assignment

You are required to choose one of the three questions available in the Assignment Submission Form made available by clicking the button below. The assignment must be submitted no later than Thursday, 8 May 2025, along with the Assignment Submission Form. Please ensure that you indicate the question you have addressed on the Assignment Submission Form.

The Assignment Submission Form will be made available here at a later date

For guidance on how to plan, draft, and submit your assignment, please refer to the 21 Academy presentation on Writing and Submitting Your Assignment by clicking the button below.

Writing and Submitting Your Assignment

We are also providing the 21 Academy's Assignments Rubric for your reference. This rubric is a performance-based assessment tool that tutors will use for grading, and it will help you understand the requirements of the assignment and how it will be assessed.

Assignments Rubric

Presentation

You also have to prepare and deliver a 10 minute presentation on your assignment. The presentation will be delivered on the date indicated in the modules time table above.

A Presentation Rubric is being made available for your guidance below. This is a performance-based assessment tool. Tutors will use the rubric to assist them to allocate scoring while it allows students to understand what is required in the presentation and how your presentation will be graded.

Presentation Rubric

Your presentation should be also be submitted in pdf format on Turnitin by not later than 24 hours before it is being delivered. Do not scan the presentation but convert/save it directly to pdf.

Note that the submitted presentations will be scanned for plagiarism.

Referencing Style

Your assignment and presentation should be referenced using the Harvard Referencing style. Please follow a short video, by clicking on the button below, to understand this referencing style.

Harvard Referencing Style

Submitting Assignments and Presentations - Turnitin

The Academy will notify you via email when the assignment questions become available. Shortly after, you will receive another email from Turnitin, likely on the same day, confirming your enrolment in a "class" where you can upload your assignment(s).

Please ensure that your assignments are submitted no later than 23:59 on the assignment submission deadline, as indicated on the Assignment Submission form or in the Turnitin "class."

At 21 Academy, you have the option to submit multiple drafts before the final submission deadline. The version uploaded at the deadline will be treated as your final submission for assessment. Please note that Turnitin evaluates the same assignment twice within a 24-hour period, so any additional submissions during this time will not be reviewed until the 24-hour period has passed. Ensure that your final submission does not exceed 20% similarity, particularly when using direct quotations.

Follow this very short video to understand how to submit your assignment through Turnitin

Submitting a Paper

To understand the similarity report generated by Turnitin follow this 1 minute video

Understanding the Similarity Report