The Impact of Site Management Practices on Masonry Workforce Efficiency in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
摘要
The construction industry plays a vital role in Nigeria’s economy by generating employment and supporting infrastructure development. However, it continues to face challenges such as low productivity, poor quality of work, and frequent project delays. The masonry workforce, a key component of construction, is particularly affected, with inefficiencies often linked to inadequate site management practices. In Benin City, these shortcomings have resulted in material wastage, increased costs, and compromised quality, yet limited research has addressed masonry workforce efficiency in this region. This study examined the relationship between site management practices and the efficiency of the masonry workforce in Benin City, Edo State. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a questionnaire survey of 120 masons and site project managers with 20 semi-structured interviews involving site managers and contractors. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were explored using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that effective site management practices, including proper planning, supervision, and communication, significantly enhanced masonry workforce efficiency. Conversely, poor practices such as weak supervision, inadequate planning, and insufficient communication hindered productivity. Key challenges identified included a shortage of skilled workers, insufficient funding, weak communication, and poor coordination. The study concluded that adopting structured site management practices can enhance productivity, reduce project delays, improve quality, and optimise resource use. These insights provide practical strategies for site managers and contractors to improve the efficiency of the masonry workforce, thereby enhancing productivity and sustainability in the construction sector of Benin City and Nigeria.