Labour productivity: Perception of site managers on building projects

Abstract

A successful construction project has many important components, one of which is labour. Many construction projects fail to achieve their goal due to poor labour productivity. Thus, this research evaluated labour productivity on building projects based on the perception of site managers. The objectives identified the factors that affect the productivity of construction operatives, examined the importance of factors affecting labour productivity, assessed the management policies to improve productivity of workers on site, and suggested solutions to the problem of labour productivity on building sites. The sample frame consisted of the 26 construction organizations registered with Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (L.C.C.I). Random sampling technique was used to administer 62 questionnaires to site managers of the building projects of the 26 construction organizations in the frame. Data obtained were analysed using frequency, mean and relative importance index. The findings showed that topmost among the factors that affect labour productivity are clarity of technical specification, equipment shortages, skill of labour, coordination level among design disciplines, payment delay, and material shortage with mean values of 4.24, 4.20, 4.20, 4.17 and 4.17 respectively. Training, welfare amenities and specialization with mean values of 4.36, 4.02 and 4.00 ranked highest among the management policies for improving operatives’ productivity. It is recommended that operatives should have access to equipment; payment should also be done promptly; in addition to organizations supporting operatives on regular training on relevant skills