Improving Labour Productivity in Ghanaian Building Construction Projects

Abstract

Labour productivity is key to the success of every construction project. The paper seeks to determine the factors that affect labour productivity and proffer possible ways to improve it in building construction projects. The study was preceded by a literature review. Data used were primary data collected through the use of questionnaires. The total number of respondents was 175. Snowball sampling technique was used in sampling respondents. Factor analysis was performed on the data collected and mean scores were also generated. The findings of the study showed that the use of wrong equipment, misuse of time schedule, lack of training sessions, poor site organisation, lack of motivation for workers, delays in the supply of materials and rework were the critical factors affecting labour productivity in building projects of Ghana. However, the major ways of improving labour productivity in building construction projects, according to the study, were to correct bad behaviour that negatively influenced productivity, proper layout of site, to improve health and safety, to use proper materials handling systems and to set targets for employees. Management must put structures in place to restrict human, material and construction related factors. This is because giving concessions in these areas can take a toll on productivity.

Keywords

• building construction projects
• factor analysis
• labour productivity