Alcohol and substance misuse in the construction industry

Abstract

This study investigates factors contributing to the menace of alcohol and substance misuse (ASM) in the construction industry, and its mitigation. A sequential exploratory mixed-method design, involving interview and questionnaire, was used for collecting data that were subsequently analysed by thematic analysis, factor analysis and Kruskal–Wallis test. Findings suggest that the problem of ASM is largely caused and exacerbated by mental strain, site working conditions, male dominance and ineffective human resource management. Screening and educational approaches were confirmed as carrot and stick methods for mitigating the menace in the construction industry. The finding implies that by making construction companies more accountable for the well-being of their workers, a change could be brought in the industry. These changes could be incentivized by initiatives like PREVENT to mitigate the crisis currently endemic in construction. The study suggests some practical measures for tackling the menace of ASM that is bedevilling the industry.

Keywords:

• alcohol
• substance misuse
• construction industry
• mental health
• occupational safety

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.