The CIOB’s recent survey into occupational stress in the construction industry brings welcome attention to the problem, but is it a case of too little too late?

The increased size of projects and the added pressures they bring requires enhanced management skills. Yet most managers are continuing to run projects as they always have, leading to increased stress.

We recently undertook a project with construction contractor ISG InteriorExterior on a £6.4m building project. We sought to involve staff in the development of working practices that improved their well-being and enhanced their effectiveness.

This involved the implementation of key initiatives, including set communication and forward planning procedures, flexible working arrangements, a five-day week, restricted email and mobile phone use and holiday cover.

The result was a dramatic reduction of stress at every level, better work life balance, reduced absenteeism and fewer accidents.

Jacqui Gascoyne

Source

Construction Manager