Abstract: “This study sought to investigate the effectiveness of risk management methods used in construction projects according to contractor’s perspective. Literature search and questionnaire surveys were carried out, and a total of thirteen risk management actions were identified which were further categorized into two groups of preventive and mitigative actions. Research findings identified subjective judgment to produce a proper programme and production of a proper schedule as mostly used actions to manage risks in the first group. Furthermore, close supervision, increase the working hours and coordinate closely with subcontractors were the most used actions to manage risks in the latter group. The results of this study would considerably boost the understanding of risk management actions and also assist contractors in handling various risks faced by the industry.”

Keywords: construction, contractors, preventive and mitigative actions, South Africa.