ABSTRACT
The objective of this paper is to examine the concept of fatigue and evaluate the significance of fatigue on the construction worker. Site observations were made during an on site case-study carried out over a three week period between August and September 1995. The sensation of fatigue is assessed using a self-evaluation questionnaire. Circulated at the beginning and end of each day, the questionnaire permits the operative to estimate, on a cardinal scale of 1 to 7, the burden of fatigue experienced. The study also monitored site production efficiency by employing the “field rating” activity sampling technique. In addition to the monitoring of operatives, observations regarding weather and hours at work are also recorded.
The results from the case study may lead management to evaluate the physio-psychological demands of the work undertaken on a construction site, further leading to an awareness that may improve site productivity and personal well-being.
