Assessment of Compliance and Welfare of Construction Workers at Selected Building Construction Project in Kathmandu: Implications for Labor Act Implementation

Abstract

This study assesses compliance and welfare among construction workers at selected building construction projects in Kathmandu, examining implications for Labor Act implementation. Utilizing literature review and questionnaire surveys, data from 228 workers, with 99 in the sample, were analyzed. The questionnaire surveyed 31 special Labor Act provisions, employing dichotomous questions. Results show high worker awareness of rights under the Labor Act, notably regarding employer duties, non-discrimination, working hours, overtime, and safety. However, gaps exist in awareness regarding remuneration, transportation, and timely wage payment. Mann-Whitney U tests comparing male and female respondents revealed no statistically significant differences in scores, suggesting gender neutrality in compliance perceptions. Challenges in labor law enforcement, including insufficient mechanisms, resource constraints, and monitoring gaps, were identified. Recommendations include strengthening enforcement, enhancing awareness, capacity-building, and stakeholder collaboration. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are emphasized to ensure construction worker welfare in Kathmandu.