Optimisation of labour-intensive productivity for construction projects in Ghana

Abstract

The construction industry in Ghana is labour-intensive and relies heavily on the skills of its workforce. No coordinated policy framework has been implemented or developed to guide and mainstream the application of labour-intensive methods in Ghana’s development process. The aim of this article is to develop a framework for optimising labour-intensive productivity for construction work. The article adopted a quantitative research design, using a questionnaire survey to determine the factors influencing labour-intensive productivity in the Ghanaian construction industry. Records available at the Ghana Social Opportunity Project (GSOP) indicate that there are 920 professionals involved in labour-intensive works on road infrastructure. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 40 districts that were into road construction projects; from these, 560 respondents were considered. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. Principal axis factor analysis revealed six components in the three labour-productivity categories with eigenvalues above 1 that may influence the optimisation of labour-intensive productivity for construction projects in Ghana. These comprise equipment and tools, material and temperature. Optimising labour-intensive productivity in construction works requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including project managers, workers, suppliers, and subcontractors. By implementing the six components in the proposed labour productivity framework, construction projects can achieve increased productivity, cost savings, and improved outcomes. The framework may help policymakers in the construction industry review the existing national policies that are geared towards helping indigenous firms in improving productivity in the construction industry.