Macroergonomics considerations on COVID-19 pandemic management in an alliance construction project, focusing on personal protective equipment protocols

Abstract

Abstract

This study focused on COVID-19 management in a large-scale alliance construction project in Finland. In this study, COVID-19-related guidance and requirements provided by different system influencers were analysed from a macroergonomics project management perspective. Because most of the guidance and regulations dealt with respiratory protection, the latter part of the analysis is devoted to this complexity. As a practical example, the findings from a respirator mask-safety goggles combination test conducted at the alliance project site are reported. Accordingly, all mask-goggles combinations failed, resulting in a 'best for the project' decision not to issue an order to wear both forms of personal protective equipment (PPE) simultaneously. The test results were also of interest to the system influencers. As a result, the safety authorities changed their original interpretation of PPE guidelines as long as the COVID-19 situation remains critical.