Workplace Incivility, Ethical Leadership and Occupational Safety: A Study of Manufacturing Workers in Accra

Abstract

The study examined the relationships between workplace incivility, ethical leadership and occupational safety among manufacturing workers in Ghana. The moderating effect of ethical leadership in the relationship between workplace incivility and safety behaviour was assessed. The study also examined the mediating role of safety climate in the relationship between workplace incivility and safety behaviour. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data was collected from roofing and aluminium processing companies in Accra. A sample of 173 manufacturing workers was conveniently drawn for the study. A structured questionnaire measuring workplace incivility (co-worker and supervisor), ethical leadership, safety climate and safety behaviour was administered. The results from the multiple regression analysis indicated a significant negative relationship between experienced incivility (co-worker incivility and supervisor incivility) and safety behaviour. Also co-worker incivility was the stronger predictor of safety behaviour compared to supervisor incivility. Ethical leadership moderated the relationship between workplace incivility and safety behaviour. Also safety climate partially mediated the relationship between workplace incivility and safety behaviour. The findings are discussed together with implication for the manufacturing sector.