Effect of Technological Change on Construction Workers and Trade Unionism in Nigeria: A Case Study of Niger State, 2006

Abstract

This paper examines the interrelationship that exists among the construction worker, trade unions and the technological change in the construction industry. it pointed out that construction worker is affected directly and indirectly by the technological changes in order to conform to international ethos. It explained the influence of technology on wage levels and structure, hours of work, security, status of worker, industrial disputes and the scope of collective bargaining. The literature review suggested that the general trend in the supply and demand for construction work follow the financing patterns of public projects, which are erratic, unpredictable, affected by stop-go policy of government. Data were collected through questionnaires and oral interview administered to ten categories of trade/workmen within the construction industry existing in the area of study, which covers wage, hours of operation, trade union and security of work. The result of the findings shows that even though there exist relationship between the variables, the impact was on the lower side. It was concluded that wage structure, and hours of operation, method of operation were not commensurate with the level of construction operation. Therefore, there is a need to motivate workers with the right incentives and enabling policies.