Utilization of Tacit Knowledge for Health and Safety Compliance Among Small and Medium Size Construction Firm in Nigeria

This study examines the utilization of tacit knowledge to enhance health and safety (H&S) compliance among small and medium-sized construction firms (SMCFs) in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. The construction industry is notorious for high accident rates, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria, where poor H&S practices and inadequate regulatory frameworks exacerbate the problem. Tacit knowledge—unspoken, experience-based expertise— plays a critical role in improving safety performance but remains underutilized due to barriers such as lack of structured mentoring, poor communication, and high employee turnover. The research adopts a quantitative approach, employing a questionnaire distributed to 71 professionals, including safety officers, architects, engineers, and quantity surveyors from Kano State Housing Corporation (KSHC) and the Ministry of Works. Data analysis using Mean Item Score (MIS) reveals that tacit knowledge significantly benefits H&S compliance by identifying hazards, fostering safety culture, and enhancing teamwork. Key barriers include the absence of formal knowledge-sharing systems and trust issues, while drivers for adoption include positive safety culture, regulatory requirements, and management support. The study concludes that leveraging tacit knowledge can reduce accident rates in SMCFs and recommends implementing structured mentoring programs, improving communication, and fostering a safety-centric organizational culture. These measures aim to bridge the gap between theoretical H&S standards and practical, experience-based solutions, ultimately enhancing workplace safety in Nigeria’s construction sector.