FAIR WORKPLACE IN CONSTRUCTION-RELATED CONSULTANCY FIRMS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Fairness in workplace has been a common topic in most of the conversations people discuss, whether be it fair treatment in offices or being allowed to take leave for time off from work. However, the research problem is that the impact of fair workplace on productivity is not clear. Also little research has been done with regards to workplace fairness issues in Singapore. Based on the research problem, the aim of this study is to evaluate the fairness of practices adopted at the workplaces of construction-related consultancy firms in Singapore. In this context, the specific objectives are to: (i) investigate the level of fairness of the workplace of construction-related consultancy firms, (ii) study the impact of fair work practices on productivity of construction-related consultancy firms and (iii) to provide recommendations on effective fair work practices that construction-related consultancy firms should adopt. A literature review was done to ascertain the possible factors which may affect level of fairness of workplaces and productivity of construction-related consultancy firms. Based on the literature review, a structured questionnaire was designed. A pilot survey was conducted, after which, an industry wide survey was conducted. 47 valid responses were received and analysed with the SPSS software. The result show that the workplace of construction-related consultancy firms is significantly fair in terms of work practices; work environment; and supervision. A Pearson’s correlation test found that factors investigated (employees’ involvement, workplace practices and workplace environment) were significantly correlated with productivity of the organizations. Based on the results, recommendations are made to further improve the level of fairness in construction-related consultancy firms in Singapore.