Sittard, March 25, 2026 – ‘Safe behavior works every day’ is the motto of the tenth edition of Safety Awareness Day (March 25). New figures from the Boels Rental Construction Index* show that safety is under pressure. Only half of construction professionals (53%) believe construction sites are safe enough. High work pressure and rising costs can negatively impact safety.
Work pressure increases safety risks
A quarter of construction professionals (25%) are increasingly concerned about safety on construction sites. More than a third (35%) say that work pressure and the speed at which projects must be completed can jeopardize safety. Particularly in accelerated housing projects, 43% expect an increased risk of accidents.
High costs and cutbacks affect safety
Financial factors also play a role in safety concerns. 26% feel forced to work faster due to rising costs. Additionally, 16% say higher energy prices contribute to reduced safety, as less heating, lighting, and equipment are used. One in ten (11%) report that personal protective equipment is purchased less frequently or is of lower quality due to limited budgets.
Call to government and employers
The combination of high costs, time pressure, and cutbacks is putting further pressure on construction site safety. As a result, 35% of construction professionals believe the government should introduce stricter measures to improve safety in the construction sector.
“There needs to be more focus on enforcement and compliance with safety measures on construction sites,” says Sven Janssen of Boels Rental. “Companies must also continue to prioritize machine maintenance, provide appropriate personal protective equipment, and work with realistic safety and project plans—even in financially challenging times.”
Together we make construction sites safer
However, safer construction sites also start with clear safety instructions and staying alert to potential hazards. Sven Janssen adds: “Give employees the time to consult and apply safety instructions, invest in reliable equipment, and remain alert to signs of work pressure and fatigue. Never skip safety checks and avoid using defective or outdated equipment. By taking responsibility together, we can make construction sites much safer.”
*The study was conducted by Markteffect among 434 Dutch construction professionals.
