Accurate estimating on labour productivity in Sri Lankan construction industry

Abstract

Sri Lankan Construction Industry is greatly concerned about Labour Productivity. Estimating labour accurately has become predominantly a difficult task in the industry. Literature survey was conducted to ascertain indices developed by other countries to measure labour productivity, Factors affecting labour productivity etc.. Case Study research was carried out in Three buildings types Namely High Rise, Medium Rise and Low Rise categories in relation to Cement Block Work, Plastering and Tiling trades. Hrs per Unit Measurements together with Novel Tool Time Analysis Techniques were used in conducting case studies. All parameters pertaining to the labour study were kept equal in all three building types during the case study research, but the study carried our in open environment where no controls have been introduced. Research suggests that single labour rate is not meaningful for every eventuality in construction. It was found that the Best Tool time in other words Best Productivity exists in Medium Rise Buildings, and the Least Productivity recorded in High Rise Building projects. Average Productivity was evident in Low Rise Buildings. Keywords: Labour Productivity, Tool l'I'ime, Construction Industry