Analyzing the SDG8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, from the perspective of occupational safety in the Construction Sector in Mexico. The mediating effect of worker behavior.

Abstract

This study examines the mediating role of the worker’s safe behavior between occupational safety and compliance with SDG8 in the construction sector in Mexico. Middle and senior management from construction companies were surveyed. The mediation models revealed a partial effect in one safety dimension and a full effect in another, increasing the explained variance up to 52%. The findings highlight the importance of promoting safe behaviors through optimal labor conditions and leadership in Mexico’s construction sector to enhance the impact of labor policies on sustainable development. Methodological limitations are acknowledged, and it is proposed to extend the approach to the operational level and other sectors, as well as to employ longitudinal designs.