Analysis of safety and well-being factors related to the ageing construction workforce

With the increasing demand for construction work, the ageing workforce has become an important concern within the construction industry. Despite the benefits associated with an older workforce, such as experience and knowledge, there are also challenges related to health that may adversely affect individual and organisational performance. Therefore, it is essential to develop a deep understanding of the empirical evidence related to physical and psychological issues facing the ageing workforce in the construction industry and then to make recommendations to improve their Work Health and Safety (WHS). This research fills that important knowledge gap by revealing safety and well-being factors that are unique to ageing workforce in the construction industry. The research employed People at Work questionnaire survey with 58 construction employees to evaluate the key hazards in the workplace. Responses to all survey items were subjected statistical analysis using IBM SPSS software. Results revealed numerous factors related to the ageing process that are often implicated with older workers’ health and safety. Within the construction industry, older workers were more likely than their younger colleagues to feel physically drained, have difficulty focusing and thinking, and be unable to care for others. Further, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on safety and well-being at work was revealed as part of the survey. According to findings, older construction workers need more support and attention towards their job role responsibilities and duties, supervisor and co-worker relationships, and mental well-being. Findings herein broaden the knowledge on the well-being of ageing construction workforce that could assist industry practitioners in decision-making and developing the best strategies such as flexible work arrangements to establish active ageing within the construction industry as a solution for the labour shortage.