Health, Safety and Wellbeing Requirements for Sustainable practices with Effective Implementation Across Marine Construction Projects

The construction industry remains one of the most hazardous sectors globally, with workers exposed to multiple physical, psychological, and occupational health risks. Despite regulatory frameworks emphasising health, safety, and wellbeing (HSW) requirements, implementation gaps persist across construction projects. This research examines the current state of HSW requirements and their effective implementation across Marine construction projects, investigating factors that facilitate or hinder compliance and the integration of wellbeing initiatives. A mixed-methods design employed a quantitative survey of 95 construction workers and semi-structured interviews with 12 participants across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and thematic analysis. Findings reveal significant variations in HSW implementation. While 93% received safety induction, only 42% confirmed regular tool-box talks. Occupational health provisions showed particular weakness, with adequate sanitation available to only 58% and health surveillance accessible to just 31%. Workers with less than five years' experience reported significantly higher exposure to HSW issues. Larger projects demonstrated more systematic safety management (mean compliance score 7.8/10) compared to small residential sites (mean 5.2/10). Wellbeing initiatives remain nascent, with mental health support available to only 18% despite 23% screening positive for psychological distress. Effective implementation demands a paradigm shift from compliance-focused safety management to integrated approaches addressing physical safety, occupational health, and psychological wellbeing.