Housekeeping in Construction: Key Drivers of Occupational Safety and Productivity in the Industry

Housekeeping in Construction: Key Drivers of Occupational Safety and Productivity in the Industry

2025

DOI: https://leanconstruction.org/lean-construction-journal/doi-info-2026-225-248/

Authors: Seng Hansen, Andre Feliks Setiawan, Kelvin

Citation:

Hansen, S., Setiawan, A. F., and Kelvin (2026) Housekeeping in Construction: Key Drivers of Occupational Safety and Productivity in the Industry. Lean Construction Journal 2026 pp 225-248 https://doi.org/10.60164/3m2mphjxy (Submitted 12Aug2025; Accepted 18May2026) www.leanconstructionjournal.org

Abstract:

Question: What are the underlying factors of construction housekeeping that contribute to occupational safety and work productivity in the Indonesian construction industry?

Purpose: The study aims to identify and categorize the key factors of construction housekeeping that influence safety and productivity, thereby elevating housekeeping from a routine task to a strategic lean management priority.

Research Method: A quantitative research design was employed, combining a comprehensive literature review with a structured questionnaire survey distributed to construction practitioners in Indonesia. The collected data were analyzed to extract common themes and groupings related to housekeeping impacts.

Findings: The findings show that housekeeping factors that affect occupational safety can be grouped into five main categories: Lean Worksite Management Practices, Lean Safety Culture and Workforce Support, Worksite Organization and Workflow Efficiency, Worker Welfare and Safety Facilities, and Waste Reduction and Hazard Control. Meanwhile, housekeeping factors that affect work productivity are divided into four main groups: Lean Workflow and Site Coordination, Material Flow and Waste Reduction, Equipment Operational Reliability, and Worksite Accessibility and Operational Control.

Limitations: The study is limited to responses from construction practitioners in Indonesia and may not reflect conditions in other countries or regions.

Implications: Construction managers should consider housekeeping as a core component of both safety and productivity frameworks. Incorporating housekeeping strategies into project planning and supervision can lead to more efficient operations and fewer accidents.

Value for authors: This research contributes to the body of knowledge by repositioning construction housekeeping as a strategic factor in project management. It provides a framework for integrating housekeeping into safety and productivity policies, particularly in developing country contexts like Indonesia.

Keywords:  Construction housekeeping, Construction industry, Productivity, Occupational safety

Paper type: Technical Note