Challenges in Integrating Building Information Modelling into Safety Management Practices among G7 Contractors

Abstract

The construction industry faces major safety challenges despite the prevailing technological advancement. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a commonly known tool that can be applied to enhance performance of the construction projects. Nevertheless, it is still not fully integrated into the safety management practices due to numerous implementation barriers. The purpose of this study is to identify and examine the major issues that affect the implementation of BIM in safety management within the Malaysian construction industry. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a structured questionnaire distributed to G7 contractors in Selangor. A total of 346 questionnaires were distributed, and 70 valid responses were collected, representing a response rate of 20.2%. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical analysis through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings reveal that the main challenge is the lack of knowledge in BIM technology, followed by lack of government support, lack of practical training, high initial cost and investment, low data quality and inconsistency, and integration difficulties. Although respondents demonstrated high awareness and usage of BIM, the application of BIM in safety-related tasks remains limited due to insufficient technical competency and institutional support. The findings further indicate that human capability and policy-related issues have a greater influence on BIM adoption than financial constraints, particularly among large contractors. This study provides deeper insight into the barriers preventing BIM-based safety management implementation and offers useful references for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers in improving construction safety management practices.