Blue-collar Skilled Worker Shortage in Construction Industry

Blue-collar practised Worker Shortage in Construction effort1.2 IntroductionMalaysia is presently experiencing a new era of prosperity. The government formulated and implemented a series of development externalizes and laid foundation for the development in the dry land. in that location is rapid growth especially in reflection sector. This bought high gather up in turn exertion. concord to (The Star Online, 22 December 2007), year 2007 number of reports have highlighted the outflow of locution jobal and skilled cut into segments of the jobs market. Many skilled litigateers in the bodily structure sector have moved to Vietnam, capital of Singapore or the Middle East in pursuit of better pay and c argonr prospects.The shortage of skilled dig out that the Malaysian saying industry is currently encountering has been perpetuated by several combinations of causes. Governments act to diminish the number of remote proles in the country will trigger the skilled labour sh ortage problem produce in to even worse situation. (The Star, 3 June 2010)1.3 Problem StatementWhen we talk about labour crisis in construction industry, number is not only release impinging on the manpower development of the industry. Due to certain reasons, local work outforce is less interested to work in the construction industry. This phenomena may bought massive impacts to the development of the industry. Local workforce is still thinking that the jobs in this sector are not dignified enough besides being labeled dirty, flagitious and difficult. Therefore as a last result to overcome the acute shortage of manpower, the industry hired foreign workers. The group of foreign workers hired by the industry basically amateur, acquires their work dealledge while assisting the more experienced workers, and thus is not meeting the industrys skill standards. Malaysia construction sector should encouraged to plan their human resource requirements to progressively reduce their depen dence on low- skilled labour, particularly foreign unskilled labour.1.4 Research AimTo analyze divergent suit causes and effects of construction Blue-Collar skilled worker shortage to construction industry.1.5 Objectives(1) To identify the causes of Blue-Collar skilled labour shortage in Malaysian construction industry.(2) To identify the effect of Blue-Collar skilled labour shortage in Malaysian construction industry.(3) To assess solutions to Blue-Collar skills labour shortages in the Malaysian construction industry.1.6 Background of the studyBlue color Skill labour shortages are a common problem across construction industry. Skill shortages are close to common in times of strong economic growth and low unemployment. The causes of skill shortages are complex. There are many drivers that could be causing a shortage in a region or occupation. Working conditions and operates piddle an important role in skill shortages. In occupations where there are poor conditions or engage, t he problem may not be in the supply of labour, plainly rather in the willingness of labour to take up positions. delicate labour shortage bought a lot effects and impacts neither to construction industry nor society. Thus, it is important that to muster up out the effective ways to chops with skilled labour shortage to avoid this phenomena further affect the economic growth.1.7 Scope of studyThe study of this study is narrowed down to simplify the process of information gathering, so it can be analyzed within an appropriate time limit. The aspects being considered areFocused on cause and effect of Blue- Color skilled labour shortage at construction industry.Focused any solution which able to cope with Blue- Color skilled labours shortage.The area of this study is in Malaysian construction industry only.1.8 Research MethodologyStage1 Literature researchA comprehensive review of the relevant literature including a computer- assisted search will be undertaken in order to develop an understanding of previous work in the field of human resource.Stage 2 master copy studyAn initial pilot study will be conducted to test the validity of the questionnaire through in- depth interviews with constructions company.Stage 3 main survey questionnaireThe feedback from the pilot study should assist in finalizing the questionnaire and prepare the ground for the main survey. The question will centre on the areas menti iodind in the to a higher place objectives.Stage 4 analyzing the postal questionnaireThis stage will demand together and review the information collected.1.9 ReferencesMalaysia Construction facing talented outflow? The Star Online, internet 22 December 2007. Available at = construction +worker+ Accessed 17 Jun 2010Right in the view of builder? The Star Online, internet 3 June 2010 Available at http//archives.thestar.com.my/last365days/default.aspx?query=foreign+worker Accessed 17 Jun 2010Chapter 2 Definition of adroit Labour Shortage in Construction Industry 2.1 Definition of Skilled LabourAs stated under PEMBINAAN MALAYSIA bit 1994 Section 2 of ACT 520,A skilled construction worker means a person possessing theaccepted level of skill, as determined by the Board, of one ormore trades as listed in ThirdSchedule. The accreditation of a person as a skilled construction worker is through conferment of Sijil Kecekapan Kemahiran (SKK) for local or Perakuan Kecekapan Pekerja Asing Binaan (PKPA) for foreign construction workers.In the more slapdash constructed definition, skilled workers could possess technical or artistic certificates, A.A. degrees, or training up to the bachelors degree level. Skilled workers are contrasted with unskilled workers or labor unskilled labor doesnt necessarily lack a skill tempered. The main difference is that the skill set required is usually innate (like strength and endurance) or intimate with minimal training. (Accessed http//www.wisegeek.com, June 5, 2010)According to CIDB, skilled worker can be defined as personnel who are able to carry out his work consort to the set specification based on the national industrial requirements and passed the fixed accreditation test. After successfully accredited (passing the practical skills test), then only CIDB will officially recognize him as a skilled personnel by issuing CIDB Skill Competency Certificate based on the line of work. (CIDB Malaysia, 2010)2.2 Type of Skilled WorkersThere is board range for the type of skilled worker in construction industry. According to the PEMBINAAN MALAYSIA ACT 1994 Section 2 and Subsection 32(2), there are do 15 type of skilled work as shown in schedule 3. For this chapter only will focused on 10 type of skilled worker. There are Tiler, Bricklayer, Plasterer, Pavour, Plumber, Carpenter, Metal Worker, Construction Plant Operator, Painter, Concretor.2.2.1 TilerTiler is responsible for laying hard tile and marble to floors, decks, and walls throughout any number of construction projects. There were as well roof tiler who able to lay roof tiles on the roof frame. Tiler must have training to set their tiles properly the first time, qualified tiler able to fancy the lest risk the project run behind schedule. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)However, tilers are susceptible to a number of injuries. The constant straining and bending over a draw near can lead to repetitive stress injuries, and fleshy tiles can cause serious injuries if handled improperly. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)2.2.2 BricklayerBricklayers build walls, partitions, and other structures made of brick. They as well as work with cover and cinder blocks, tile, marble, and terra cotta. Bricklayers can do both construction and maintenance work. To build a brick wall, bricklayers construct the corners of the wall first. Normally bricklayers will stretch string from one corner of the wall to the other to used as a guide so that they can build the wall straight. Bricklayers will put the morta r in front put bricks in place. Many tools used by bricklayers. For example, trowels, brick hammers, chisels, levels, and rulers. General worker will assist the tiler to do the heavy work, such as carrying materials and mixing the mortar.2.2.3 Plasterersplastering is one of the oldest and most respected construction skills. This ancient trade is responsible for applying stucco and plaster to building sites for insulation, support, and aesthetic purposes. (Cited from www.resource4constructionsiteaccidents.com)2.2.4 PavourSegmental pavers are responsible for cutting, placing, and lay a variety of finished masonry such as brick and cover in order to create paths, patios, driveways, and steps. They work in conjunction with other concrete professionals such as masons, finishers, and terrazzo workers to create the modern society that we so often take for granted. (Cited from www.resource4constructionsiteaccidents.com)2.2.5 PlumberPlumbers design, install, repair and maintain piping sy stems such as soil, waste, vent, potable water, effluent treatment, gas systems (medical, propane, and natural) in residential, commercial, industrial buildings and at utility sites. Plumbing tasks require the ability to assemble, install, maintain and repair pipes, fittings, fixtures, appurtenances, appliances of heating, water, storm and sanitary drainage systems according to specifications and plumb codes. Plumbers install sanitary fixtures such as, lavatories, toilets, bathtubs, bathroom accessories, showers, kitchen sinks and appliances, drinking fountains and laundry equipment. (Cited from www.resource4construction siteaccidents.com)2.2.6 CarpenterIn construction industry, the job scope for Carpenters is construct, erect, install or repair structures, fittings or furniture made of woodwind instrument building frameworks including partitions, joists, struts and rafters wood staircase, window and door frames and hardwood floors using their skills and tools. They build wood fram ing for houses, roofs, stairs, decks and construct formwork to support concrete work such as footings, columns and stairs. Besides that, they also involves carpentry work to install cabinets, siding, drywall rails, building cabinets and counter tops and may imply work on drywall, wood flooring, metal jambs and ceilings. Normally carpenters are skilled in exterior and interior finish work.A different type of carpenters has different skills. Some of them are storage locker Maker, Construction, Floor Coverer, Interior Systems, Millwright, Pile Driver. (Accessed to www.resource4construction siteaccidents.com)2.2.7 Metal workerThe duty of metal workers in the construction is to maintain, and installs for variety of metal products including siding, signs, and ventilation equipment. This very specialized profession requires many years of training and experience, not only because worked metal must be very precise, but also the level of danger associated with operative milieu which use th e powerful cutting and lifting equipment is higher than most other occupations. (Accessed http//www.resource4constructionsiteaccidents.com, 5 June 2010)2.2.8 Construction Plant OperatorsConstruction equipment operators use machinery to shift construction materials, earth, and other heavy materials at construction sites. They operate equipment that clears and grades land to prepare it for construction of roads, buildings, and bridges. They use machines such as bulldozer to excavate trenches to place or repair potty and other utilities, and use tower crane to hoist heavy construction materials. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)Besides that, Construction Plant Operators also help make adjustments, set up and inspect the equipment, perform some maintenance and minor repairs. Construction equipment is more technologically advanced than it was in the past. In technology advanced country such as Japan and United Kingdom, such skills worker will use global positioning system (GPS) technology to help with grading and aim activities. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)2.2.9 PaintersPainters are often the last line of construction workers to finish a project before the tenants occupy the structure. The main duty of painter is to propose not only aesthetic retainers for a bare structure, but also enhance the natural shape of a building and provide additional certificate from weather, wear and tear, and natural aging process.These skilled workers must have knowledge of not only their crafts, but the appropriate amount of chemicals needed to finish it, how different surfaces need different materials, and finally a bit of creative touch to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)2.2.10 ConcretorThe duty of the concrete finishers is creating the smooth, unbroken appearance in concrete. Although the job seems to be very easy but in fact one that takes years to learn and many more to master it, and experi enced concrete finishers are always a welcome sight on any construction project. (Accessed http//dwd.wisconsin.gov, 5 June 2010)ACT 520 Third ScheduleThird Schedule Section 2 and Subsection 32(2)Skilled Construction Workers No.Skilled Construction Worker1Concretor2Bar-bender3Carpenter4Bricklayer/Mason5Plasterer/pavior6Tiler7Painter8Joiner9Metalworker10Drain-layer11Glazier12Welder13Construction plant operator14Plumber15Licensed Electrician( sources from PEMBINAAN MALAYSIA ACT 1994)ReferencesLAWS OF MALAYSIA ACT 520 LEMBAGA PEMBANGUNAN INDUSTRI PEMBINAAN MALAYSIA ACT 1994.Wisconsin Department of Workforce Department.2010 Online Available at http//dwd.wisconsin.gov Assessed 5 June 2010Type of Construction Workers http//www.resource4constructionsite accidents.com/topics/typesofconstructionworkers.html Assessed 5 June 2010Chapter 3 Factor that cause skilled labour shortage in Construction industry3.1 Cause of skilled labour shortageThe skilled labour shortage can be attributed not only to the economic boom, but also to the fact that mass are choosing more academic type qualifications. (CIDB, 2003)As a result, many companies are now searching for skilled labour to meet their needs. The shortage of skilled labour can result from an increase in the demand for labour. (Liew, Wee Yee, 2005), this can be interpreted as demand is more than supply. There are several diverse factors have contributed to the construction industrys shortages of skilled workers these factors include local and young generation unwilled to join, wages problem, poor industry image, working environment and condition, government policy, economic factor.3.1.1 Local and Young generation unwilling to joinIn Malaysia, local youths would rather be unemployed despite working in the construction industry. This is attributed to the archaic employment practices, outdoor work and prevalence of the temporary and casual labour. (Saleh emailprotected, 2008). Usually people will feel the construction workers lack superiority, class and respectability. Youngster is not willing to take over the manual(a) techniques from their parent (skilled worker). This will leave to the skills gaps which will leave by old generation who are retirement. Youngster prefers work that is less strenuous with more easy working conditions. According to Ng Seing Liong, Now that I sit on the CIDB, I know it is facing a lot of problems. It cant find Malaysians to be trained in the wet trades, such as masonry, carpentry. In comparison, Indonesian workers are so easily available. The statement above meant for the local, its very difficult to find the Malaysian to do as a construction worker compared to foreign worker.3.1.2 Wages problemWorking as construction worker, the wage is usually salaried on daily basis. For example, if that construction worker unable to work that particular working day, will cause no income for that day. According to report for Average effortless Wage Rate of Construction Workers and M achine Plant Operator January 2009, the wages for skilled worker will higher compared to unskilled worker and the scale of wage is also different from each state/ area in the Malaysia. Besides that, the poor paymaster (MBAM, 2007) also becomes the major issue in the Construction industry. Income is the major consideration for people to entry the industry. Issues as above mentioned will create a barrier for people choose to work in construction industry. Statement above can be proved by Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) president Datuk Ng Kee Lee, he had mentioned that the Act was vital to protect the interests of all players in the construction industry and the association had appealed to the Malaysia government to bring the Act into force.3.1.3 Poor industry imageConstruction industry usually related to 3D, which is dirty, dangerous and difficult. (CIDB, 2005) Local people are not willing to participate into the construction industry. In Malaysia, almost 90% of construct ion workers whether skilled or unskilled are foreign worker which come from neighboring countries. (CIDB, 2005) The irresponsible employer/ contractor which wish to save the construction cost will usually ignore the safety of workers by provided the worker with nominal insurance. Besides that, appeared of poor paymaster and a great of number of press which report the incident of site accident contributes to the skilled shortage issue. One of the issues of most consult to construction workers throughout the world is the insecurity of income that comes with temporary status. Providing adequate insurance against periods of sickness or unemployment as well as medical and retirement benefits is of detailed importance in attracting and retaining workers in the industry (ILO, 2007). In conclusion, every construction party have to work out together to wash the image of construction industry.3.1.4 Working environment and conditionExecutive director of the Malaysian Employers Federation sa id that Malaysian workers are not willing to work on a plantation or construction site because it is hard work under the sun. Many of the 26 zillions Malaysian workers want white collar jobs (Bloomberg News, 2005). In Malaysia, snarly working condition is also is the barrier for people to entry the industry. The construction industry is unique among industries. The activities of construction often take place outdoor tempestuous conditions which not safety and healthy and extremely hot weather. Workers in the construction sites have to face persistent change in the nature of work, the location of work and the mix of workers. The nature of most accidents at construction recurrent and serious shows that the construction industry is unique. As buildings become higher and larger, the possibility of accidents to occur also increases. The danger posed to personal safety by construction work is one of the reasons why Malaysian is unwilling to take up careers in it. According to Human Res ources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam, an average of eighty workers was killed in such accidents. Inspection conducted by Department of Safety and Health (DOSH) found that one of the main tributary factors of accidents at construction sites was the lack of commitment by employers to implement measures to improve occupational safety and health. Construction sites rated as unsatisfactory were not managed in uniformity to best practices. And most of the time, were not in compliance with the laws and regulations governing construction activities. Accidents at the construction site do not only involve workers, but may also inflict injury or even cause death to the general public. Such accidents had tarnished the image of construction industry. In conclusion, the poor working environment and condition is also contributed to the skilled labour shortage problem in Malaysia.3.1.5 Government policyThe latest report revealed that there were approximately 1.9 one thousand million foreign w orkers in Malaysia. These foreign workers were dustribute across sectors such as manufacturing (39 %), construction (19 %), plantation (14 %), housemaids (12 %), services (10 %), remainder were in agriculture sector.(accessed to www.themalaysianinsider.com) From the figure above, we can know that 19% of 1.9 million foreign worker is work in construction industry. The government of Malaysia move to diminish the number of foreign workers in the country to 1.5 million by 2010 will even worsen the issues of construction skilled labour shortage as the local already less interested working as skilled worker in the construction industry. The policy will stop the potential construction skilled worker which can come to our country for working.3.1.6 frugal FactorThe strong growth of the Malaysia economy prompt by the influx of investments, job opportunities have increased resulting in the easing of the unemployment rate. (Saleh emailprotected, 2008) In construction industry, foreign investme nt had causes the supply of property increase supply of property increase will also affect the construction skilled workers intensive. Skilled worker play an important roles in construction industry. Without them, construction industry will be affected, thus, it has now become an employees market and therefore, workers can afford to be choosy. Skilled workers wages will increase, then for employer which came from minor financial will not be able to hire skilled worker.3.1.7 Change in EducationMore recently, some other change that has affected the inflow of new labour in construction industry is the educational change that has impacted younger generation. More people are seeking higher education in an effort to secure a more lucrative profession and consequently live a better behavior than their parents did. It appears that here, a stigma is being cast upon construction trades as dirty, dangerous and difficult. The term construction worker has negative impact for young people. Most unremarkably see the construction worker lacks prestige, class and respectability. It is projected that the proportion of the overall labour force with tertiary education to increase to 21.1 per cent in 2006 (20 percent in 2005) in line with the government.s concerted efforts at enhancing the quality of human capital in the country (Bernama, 2001).