By Edgar Martínez
Special for El Inmobiliario
The year 2024 has made it clear that the lack of supervision and safety in construction works in the Dominican Republic remains an urgent problem.
This year, the Dominican Republic has witnessed an increase in construction-related accidents and disasters, with inadequate supervision, deficiencies in safety regulations, and construction defects identified as key contributing factors. Despite advancements in the real estate sector and the development of large infrastructure projects, construction remains one of the most hazardous occupations in the country.
It is essential that both authorities and the private sector commit to ensuring that safety, quality, and regulatory compliance in construction are a priority. Only in this way can we prevent more lives from being lost due to accidents, disasters, or construction defects, and protect construction companies from lawsuits and significant financial losses, thus guaranteeing a safer and more reliable future for the sector.
Accidents and loss of life
Throughout the year, several fatal accidents and serious injuries have been reported at construction sites. Falls from great heights, the collapse of poorly constructed structures, improper use of equipment, and a lack of worker training have been the main causes behind these tragic events. Figures from the Ministry of Labor and occupational safety agencies indicate that most of these accidents could have been prevented with adequate supervision and compliance with safety regulations.
Construction defects: A worrying reality
Another alarming issue that has come to light in 2024 is the increase in complaints related to construction defects. Many of these faulty practices result from a lack of oversight in project execution, the hiring of unqualified personnel, or the use of low-quality materials. Among the most common defects are problems with electrical installations, failures in plumbing systems, poorly founded structures, and substandard finishes.
Consumers, especially those purchasing homes in high-growth areas like Punta Cana, Santiago, and Santo Domingo, have been the most affected. Numerous complaints through media outlets and online platforms have highlighted the poor condition of recently delivered properties, including serious structural damage, substandard finishes, and malfunctioning utility systems. These defects not only compromise the safety of residents but also erode trust in the construction industry.
Lack of supervision and insufficient regulation
The lack of adequate technical supervision on construction sites is one of the main factors behind the accidents and construction defects that plague the sector. In many cases, projects are developed under conventional supervision schemes, where an engineer or architect acts as the general supervisor. However, this general supervision model is insufficient due to the increasing complexity of the construction processes associated with each technical area of a project.
It is common for specific tasks to be assigned to construction workers or other skilled laborers, often without adequate technical training, under the argument that they possess practical experience and that conventional supervision is limited to ensuring they execute the plans. This creates a significant risk, as technical and construction responsibilities are delegated without the necessary controls. Simply assigning a professional, even a trained one, to monitor construction processes does not, in itself, guarantee compliance with regulations or adherence to safety and quality standards.
Furthermore, the lack of strict regulations and the limited oversight capacity of the authorities contribute to the problem. Many projects proceed without the necessary technical inspections, resulting in defective and potentially dangerous construction. This flawed approach not only jeopardizes the safety of those involved but also compromises the quality, functionality, and durability of the buildings.
It is imperative that the construction sector adopt specialized and more rigorous technical supervision systems, which will guarantee the correct execution of projects and compliance with applicable regulations, thus preventing accidents and ensuring the quality of the works.
Poor supervision also has economic implications, as property owners and buyers face costly repairs and fixes. Furthermore, workplace accidents on construction sites generate additional compensation costs and losses for construction companies, and in many cases, lawsuits.
The challenge of improving safety on construction sites
Given this situation, it is crucial that the construction sector, together with local authorities, strengthen safety and monitoring measures. Strict implementation of workplace safety regulations, ongoing worker training, the use of technology in construction supervision, and rigorous application of quality standards are fundamental steps to prevent accidents and improve the quality of construction.
Furthermore, it is essential to strengthen public awareness of consumer rights and the importance of demanding quality and safety in housing.
The author is an architect. He holds a postgraduate degree in Construction Management, specializing in Quality Management, Administration, and Supervision of civil works. He is a financial consultant for residential real estate development projects and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EM + A Group.
