Thesis (M.Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2007

Employment is considered the best way out of poverty. The construction industry has a very high potential of employment creation, especially for the uneducated and poor. However prevailing practices regarding labour in the construction industry such as outsourcing and recruiting on temporary and casual terms, lead to deteriorating working conditions. It is sometimes viewed that construction employment is not 'decent' and a mere exploitation of cheap labour. This research aimed to investigate how construction employment is shaping workers' lives, what makes the workers willing to work in construction and how the job can be improved. Qualitative data gathered from case study and interviews conducted in Thailand and a review of literature helped to develop a System Dynamics model to investigate workers' willingness to work in construction. The study reveals that insecure and inadequate income, necessity for severe physical exertion, exposure to health and safety hazards, exposure to poor living conditions, requirement for separation from family, lack of free time and gender discrimination erode workers' quality of life and reduce their willingness. The pressure to generate income and satisfaction resulting from fulfilment of certain higher level needs increase willingness. The study also investigates possible actions by construction companies such as limiting overtime hours, provisions for accommodation and welfare facilities, safety and health measures, skills development and gender equality which could improve workers' willingness and their life

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering Construction, Engineering and Infrastructure Management.