Towards improved labour standards for construction of minor works in low income countries

Purpose of the paper: The construction industry is one of the largest employment providers in the developing world. It is also one of the least safe industries, with a high frequency of accidents resulting in financial losses, injuries, disabilities and deaths. Decent working conditions and resulting improved worker satisfaction are key to sustainable productivity in the industry. International standards safeguarding construction workers are abundant and ratified by most low-income countries. Are these standards adequately reflected in contracts for construction works? If not, how can contract clauses be improved and operationalised? Design/methodology/approach: Based on research undertaken in Ghana, India and Zambia from 2000 to 2003, this paper explores the aforementioned questions. The paper comprises of analysis of contract clauses from the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) and developing country contracts, along with cases study findings. Findings: This paper finds that more legislation is not the urgent issue; incorporating existing legislation into construction contracts and making clauses operational is a priority. This paper identifies practical and cost-effective procedures for bringing stakeholders together to implement and monitor labour standards, with the aim of contributing to the overall goal of providing “decent work” for all workers in the construction industry. Original/value of the paper: This paper explores issues around implementing labour standards in construction of minor infrastructure works in low income countries and concludes with suggestions on how best to operationalise contract clauses through a process approach.