EFA models for evaluating stakeholder perceptions of falls-from-height risks in building projects: a case study from Vietnam

Purpose Falls-from-height (FFHs) are widely recognized as one of the principal causes of life-threatening accidents in the construction industry. However, stakeholders significantly differ in how they prioritize the underlying causes of FFHs. Therefore, this study aims to develop models to evaluate their perceptions of FFH risks. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on a comprehensive literature review and expert consultation, this study identified 28 factors related to FFH that are relevant to the Vietnamese construction context. A structured questionnaire was administered to project stakeholders to evaluate these factors. In total, 150 valid data sets were collected and then analyzed using principal analysis tools, including mean scores, Spearman’s rank correlation and exploratory factor analysis. Findings The findings indicate that, although stakeholders exhibit a high consensus in ranking the FFH risks, their assessments differ significantly. Contractors assigned the lowest average rating (3.46), compared with consultants (3.65) and owners (3.49), highlighting a concerning gap in FFH risk perception. Across all factors, the critical risks are: “unstable scaffolding and ladders” and “slippery surfaces”. Given these perceptual differences, the study developed separate factor models, which contain four to six principal components that explain the total variance with a minimum of 70% for each stakeholder group. Originality/value The findings support stakeholders in strengthening their awareness of FFH hazards and formulating more practical and targeted strategies for FFH prevention and control.