IMPACT OF COVID ON CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is a highly consequential global health crisis of considerable magnitude in contemporary times. The worldwide ramifications of this phenomena have profoundly transformed work settings and the welfare of employees, resulting in an increased recognition of psychological and physical well-being. The COVID-19 epidemic has had a significant influence on the construction industry, necessitating efforts to improve the safety and well-being of its workforce. The research aims to enhance comprehension of factors and establish an initial assessment framework that can aid in the identification of issues and priority areas encountered within the Construction Industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study is to ascertain the health and safety hazards encountered by construction workers amidst the pandemic and propose appropriate management strategies to mitigate these risks. A thorough examination of current scholarly literature, industry insights, reports, and other pertinent sources was undertaken in order to collect and categorize the requisite data. Seventeen challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic were classified into four distinct categories. The results indicated that several factors, such as hazardous work conditions, overwhelming work demands, domestic situations, and concerns over employment stability, often contribute to the development of anxiety, despair, and perhaps suicidal tendencies. A total of eleven techniques were identified to effectively tackle these difficulties. The findings indicated that enhancing worksite safety by using strategies such as signage placement, keeping appropriate worker distances, supplying sanitizers and washing stations in the fields, and utilizing efficient technology might enhance project efficiency and guarantee worker well-being. The findings of this study will provide valuable insights for project managers and authorities within the construction industry, enabling them to better understand the challenges posed by the epidemic and effectively adopt strategies to improve the well-being and safety of their workforce. Furthermore, this paper presents an initial COVID evaluation framework that enables the construction industry, particularly contractors, consultants, and vendors, to gain a deeper understanding of and effectively handle the current situation. This framework aids in making informed decisions and strategies to mitigate the existing threats posed by the pandemic.