Problems with the mental working environment will often lead to increased sick leave, low productivity, conflicts, high staff turnover and hence lower earnings. Symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, sleep problems and agitation may be warning signs that all is not well with cooperation and wellbeing.

Cooperation

Most people in the building and construction industry are dependent on cooperation that works well; cooperation between apprentices and journeymen at the company, between managers and staff, between bosses and the developer, construction managers, planners and suppliers. If cooperation is going awry, this impacts upon wellbeing and earnings.

Workload/schedule

If the workload becomes too enormous over a period, professional quality will suffer and staff will lose their job satisfaction. Frustration and conflicts develop from having too much work to do over a long period. It is important to talk about schedules every time a major new project is to begin.

Planning and information

Good planning of tasks in the right sequence, and ideally without interruptions. This is good for both cooperation and wellbeing.

People’s influence on their own work

People’s influence on their own work and the option of devising their own working days are very significant to job satisfaction. Schedules that are too tight will often lead to conflict as people are dependent on how quickly other people work and are affected by any delays occurring.

Recognition and respect

The tone at building and construction companies can be tough at times. It is important for people to give one another recognition for work done well or for helping colleagues. Respect for one another is important for cooperation and wellbeing, regardless of your position: apprentice, journeyman or boss.

Openness and conflict resolution

Conflicts are not entirely avoidable in the construction industry. However, a lot of conflicts can be avoided if people talk openly about things. Rules on how to refuse to do things or to call a halt can also help to resolve conflicts before they get out of hand.

Crisis management

If an accident happens in the workshop, on site or in traffic, it is good to know what you should do. Crisis management can help to reduce the extent of the damage, and knowing what is to be done in a crisis gives everyone a sense of security.