Determining the labour productivity of plastering on building sites in kampala

Abstract

Proper and accurate estimation of labour/manpower requirements for a construction project is very important for the successful implementation of that project. This study determines the productivity of masons (plasterers) in wall plastering activity and explores the relationship between productivity of masons in plastering works and explanatory factors of labour productivity. A descriptive survey research design approach was adopted for the study and observation data sheets were used as research instruments to collect data on selected building construction sites. Data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The results show that the average construction labour productivity of wall plastering activity on building construction sites in Kampala is 2.8m2/hr. the study also established that there is no significant relationship between labour productivity of plastering works and explanatory factors that is level of experience and education of masons, thickness of plaster being plastered, number of helpers and average working height of plastering. The reason according to discussions with masons at several sites is that different mortar mixes for plaster have different setting time that is the faster the setting time of mortar the more the area of wall plastered. The study therefore concludes that duration of works and labour cost estimation on construction projects should be based on productivity rates resulting from work study rather than from project records which may be inaccurately documented.

Key words: Productivity, Plastering, Masons, Construction