Assessment of the impact of the piece wage and time wage systems on labour in terms of health, safety and wellbeing in the construction industry.
Abstract
Construction work is known for its inherent risks and potential impacts on the health, safety, and well-being of workers. The choice of wage system, whether it be piece-wage or time-wage, can significantly influence worker outcomes. This research aims to assess the effects of these wage systems on construction workers in Kampala, Uganda, and their implications for labor health, safety, and well-being. The study utilizes a comprehensive approach, considering various key performance indicators (KPIs) such as workers' satisfaction, training and education, safety committees, risk assessments, incident reporting, hazard identification, safety equipment, supervision, workers' compensation, workers' health knowledge, safety leadership effectiveness, workers' use of personal protective equipment (PPE), workers' sleep quality, and PPE maintenance rate. By examining these KPIs, the research provides a thorough evaluation of the piece-wage and time-wage systems and their impact on worker health, safety, and well-being. The findings reveal several significant insights, including the challenges faced by workers under the piece-wage system, such as increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders and job dissatisfaction. Additionally, suggestions are provided to address these challenges, focusing on improving compensation and benefits, enhancing work-life balance, providing career growth opportunities, developing comprehensive training programs, establishing safety committees, conducting regular risk assessments, improving incident reporting systems, ensuring availability and proper use of safety equipment, enhancing supervisory training, providing access to comprehensive workers' compensation, developing health education programs, and promoting effective safety leadership. Lastly the recommendations are also provided for father studies which include; increasing on the sample Size, carrying out additional research that is longerlasting and involving in a wider, more varied set of individuals and broadening the study population. The research contributes to the field of occupational health and safety, informing policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders about the advantages and disadvantages of piece-wage and time-wage systems in the construction industry. It also sheds light on the role of the state in regulating working conditions and safeguarding workers' rights. The findings from this study can aid in making informed decisions regarding the appropriate wage system implementation and support the overall well-being of construction workers.