Work-Life Experiences of Women in the Construction Industry: A Case of Women in Lagos Mainland, Nigeria

Abstract

The construction industry has not been able to maximize its full potentials in terms of harnessing the talents and abilities of its diverse workforce. Despite calls for a more pluralistic and inclusive workforce, the construction industry remains male-dominated, thereby limiting its growth potentials. The study examined the effects of workload on family expectations intending to support initiatives on gender equality and equity that will improve working conditions in the industry and eventually increase its performance and competitiveness. The study used questionnaires to achieve the research purpose. The survey was based on a purposive sampling of female construction professionals from different companies in Lagos Mainland, Nigeria. Descriptive statistics and linear regression were used for analysing the data. From the linear regression model, it was revealed that workload affects family responsibility at 73.20%. The significant family responsibilities affected by workload included: making alternative arrangements for children's school transportation, spending time with spouse, spending time with children, taking care of household chores, and going shopping for the family. The study focused only on female construction professionals working in the Mainland area of Lagos, Nigeria. More empirical evidence of the effects of workload on family responsibilities can be obtained by considering female professionals in other regions of Nigeria. These findings have serious implications on job fulfilment, organizational loyalty, employee retention, and organizational performance. The study recommends flexible working hours and other gender-friendly policies to attain the much desired inclusive, profitable and sustainable construction industry.