Assessment of factor affecting labor productivity ( case of building projects in Wolkite University)

Abstract

One of the wide ranging problems that the construction industry facing; especially in developing countries is Poor productivity of construction workers. This problem has a great effect on cost, quality and time overruns in construction projects. As construction is a labor-intensive industry, this paper focuses on Assessment of factors affecting labor productivity. So, the research examines the common factors affecting labor productivity of building construction projects, effects of labor productivity on project and proposing labor productivity improving methods suggested by construction practitioners in Wolkite. Because an accurate understanding of the correlation between these factors will lead to improved labor productivity. We used the semi structured interview and questioner data collection technique to collect rich and meaningful data from the participants to assess the problem. The research result shows that ten critical factors affecting labor productivity which needs more attentions are; Lack of required material, Lack of required tools/equipment, Supervision delay, Increase in the price of material, Differing site condition from the plan, Inspection delay from the author, Accident during construction, Dispute with the designer, Lack of labor experience and Rework. The research also found that; Exploring, Identifying, and Evaluating Issues Affecting Labor Productivity, Applying appropriate leadership style, motivating the work force, providing training and development, Implementing effective project management processes, pay workers salary as per the productivity and giving measured task for the worker as per the weakly schedules are labor improvement approaches suggested by the respondent. Delay acne of completion period, Increase overhead cost of the company, Quality problem, loss of profit were found to be the major effects of labor productivity. Finally, based on the analysis of the results, recommendations for contractors and other stake holders have been proposed that enables to improve labor productivity and favors the construction industry for better performances