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In line with the larger goals of CPWR, the Small Studies Program funds small opportunistic and pilot studies that help define problems and identify needed policy changes or potential interventions. These pilot studies can be used in some cases to determine whether a large-scale investigation is warranted. Each study is expected to last from one to two years and is funded at a maximum of $30,000. |
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Encouraging
Innovation
In addition to developing innovative work practices and technologies
- including training, equipment, and tools - small studies might encourage
innovation by addressing questions such as these: What are the cultural
and logistical barriers or incentives for change? How can organizations
or individuals produce innovation in construction?
Developing
Interventions
Whenever possible, the research should produce a usable technique
or tool, in cooperation with workers and managers in the field.
Using and Improving Data
Although extensive data are available from the federal government
and other sources, the data sets are inadequate. There are not reliable
statistical data on some aspects of construction work or the industry.
The shortfall provides a research opportunity to move beyond anecdotal
or questionable information. But, at the same time, some aspects of
construction, such as productivity levels, may be impossible to gauge.
These questions continue: How can data be more effectively collected
and used? What can be gleaned from existing data sets such as national
health surveys? Are there benefits to producing new sets of uniform
information on given aspects of construction work from worksites or
companies?
Evaluating Effectiveness
Dependable assessments of programs are difficult to produce, but are
needed, in response to these basic questions: Does a change –
including safety training – produce measurable long-term results
in construction work and, if so, what are they? What is needed to
maintain continuous improvement at the level of the industry or worksite?
Disseminating Information
Improved strategies for disseminating information about construction
safety and health must be developed and evaluated.
For more information, consult the
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