Site-staff transport in the construction industry

Abstract

The level of construction site employees' access to and usage of public transport impacts on productivity. Absenteeism, late arrival, and early departure to and from work result in losses in productivity. Modeling various options of transport provision, the question of viability for employers to provide transport to staff can be assessed. The presented models consider more than the resultant cost to company. Transport related problems are considered. The work is case study driven, focusing on a typical inner-urban construction site. Within the case study a questionnaire administered among staff as well as clock-cards were used to capture data. Data aimed at depicting typical circumstances and opinions regarding transport. It was found that the provision of transport can lead to decreased absenteeism, increased productivity and a more satisfied labor force. The provision of transport to site staff can thus impact on the labor forces' overall productivity. It must however be noted that a cost to company exists and the actual and perceived benefits should outweigh the costs. Recommendations for construction companies considering the provision of transport for site staff are given, highlighting some particular aspects of such decision.