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Protecting workers through supply chains: Lessons from two construction case studies

Author

Listed:
  • Philip James

    (Middlesex University, UK)

  • David Walters

    (Cardiff University, UK)

  • Helen Sampson

    (Cardiff University, UK)

  • Emma Wadsworth

    (Cardiff University, UK)

Abstract

Two case studies of the successful use of supply chains to support the effective management of health and safety on constructions sites are analysed to identify the factors supporting this success. The analysis reveals that a combination of external regulatory pressures and an industry structure facilitative of the establishment and implementation of ‘good practice’ played a crucial role in the outcomes achieved. It is concluded therefore that while the findings lend weight to policy initiatives to utilise the power dynamics in supply chains to protect working conditions, they also suggest that surrounding institutional and industrial contexts exert a potentially crucial influence over their effectiveness. Consequently, it is further argued that such initiatives need to be responsively shaped to them.

Suggested Citation

  • Philip James & David Walters & Helen Sampson & Emma Wadsworth, 2015. "Protecting workers through supply chains: Lessons from two construction case studies," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 36(4), pages 727-747, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:36:y:2015:i:4:p:727-747
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X14532296
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Cited by:

    1. Mesfin Abeje Tefera & Fan Luo & Zeremariam Yosief, 2023. "Examining the Effect of Stakeholder Pressures on Safety Risk Adoption: Evidence from Chinese Manufacturing Enterprises," International Journal of Management Science and Business Administration, Inovatus Services Ltd., vol. 10(1), pages 42-59, November.

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