Leading Indicators of the Health and Well-Being of the Construction Workforce: Perception of Industry Professionals

Construction is one of the most hazardous and stressful occupations throughout the world. The dynamic, complex, and high-risk nature of construction operations places significant burden on the construction workforce. This significant burden of construction operations can compromise the health and well-being of the construction workforce. The objective of the present study is to identify leading indicators of the health and well-being of the construction workforce. To achieve the study objective, a survey questionnaire was developed and distributed to construction experts in the United States. After collecting and analyzing the responses, it was found that there are six leading indicators of the health and well-being of the construction workforce: (1) toolbox talks, (2) company social events, (3) safety, health care, and wellness program, (4) employee assistance program (EAP), (5) employee benefits and perks, and (6) annual medical checkups. Identifying these indicators helps construction organizations interested in supporting employee career advancement assess and improve the health and well-being of the workforce. The findings of the study make a practical contribution to the body of knowledge on construction health and safety and enables the practitioner community to utilize the identified indicators for managing and improving construction employee health and well-being.