Developing a comprehensive safety performance evaluation framework for Saudi schools

Abstract

Purpose - The objective of this study was to empirically develop a safety performance framework for evaluating the various leading and lagging indicators of safety performance in Saudi public schools. Design/methodology/approach - A comprehensive review of the safety and performance evaluation literature enabled the formulation of the constructs, factors and items that underpinned a conceptual safety performance evaluation framework. The research method involved a conceptual framework review and refinement process with eighteen experts, followed by a questionnaire survey of 200 respondents from Saudi public schools. The final form of the safety performance evaluation framework was determined through a rigorous statistical analysis process, including exploratory factor analysis to uncover the underlying framework architecture from a relatively large set of items, and then the application of the partial least squares method to confirm framework adequacy and to assign loading coefficients. Findings - The developed safety performance evaluation framework for Saudi schools included five constructs, namely, safety management and leadership, safety learning and training, safety policy, procedures, and processes, workforce safety culture and safety performance. Practical implications - The developed safety performance evaluation framework is proposed for implementation by the Saudi Ministry of Education to better monitor and manage school safety in the future. Originality/value - This safety performance evaluation framework is one of the first to holistically evaluate safety performance in Schools, particularly in the Saudi Arabian context.