Design for safety in construction in developing countries: a review

Design is widely recognised as a key contributor to poor occupational safety and health (OSH) outcomes in construction, prompting the emergence of design for safety (DfS) as a practice. Although a growing body of literature examines DfS in developing countries, no study has comprehensively synthesised existing research to assess its current state, identify gaps, and chart future directions. This study addresses that void. Through a systematic literature review, this study maps the DfS research landscape in developing countries. The review reveals that most studies have concentrated on implementation factors including challenges, barriers, drivers, and opportunities alongside DfS competence dimensions such as awareness, knowledge, attitude, skills, and practice. However, areas like DfS education and the role of digital technologies remain underexplored. Methodologically, quantitative approaches dominate, with limited use of qualitative and mixed-method designs. Geographically, research is concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, leaving other developing regions underrepresented. This study proposes a future research agenda targeting these gaps, advocating for greater attention to underexplored thematic areas, particularly DfS education, and expanded geographic coverage, especially in the Middle East and North Africa, to inform policy and practice.