How Long Do Construction Workers Work?

Understanding Work Hours in Construction: Finding the Balance

In this blog, we’re going to delve into a topic that’s crucial for anyone involved in the construction industry—whether you’re currently working in the field, considering a career in construction, or simply trying to evaluate your current work-life balance. We’ll explore the typical work hours in construction, the factors that influence them, and why it’s essential not to overburden yourself or your team.

How Long Do Construction Workers Typically Work?

Construction work hours can vary significantly depending on the company and project requirements. For example, some large general contractors may have their teams work four days a week with 10-hour shifts, which has its own pros and cons. Most construction workers follow a standard five-day workweek, though it’s not uncommon for some contractors to make six or even seven-day workweeks mandatory.

While pushing through long hours might seem like a way to get more done, it’s important to understand the risks of overburdening yourself or your team. Fatigue can lead to reduced mental alertness, increasing the chances of injuries, chronic pain, and long-term health issues such as opioid addiction. This can snowball into personal issues like marital problems and, ultimately, a decline in overall well-being.

The Impact of Work Hours on Health and Productivity

The human body, much like any machine, needs breaks to function optimally. My favorite reference here is from the US military, which found that soldiers can march farther with a 10-minute break every hour. This concept applies to construction workers too. Ignoring the need for breaks and rest periods is not just “toughing it out”—it’s detrimental to long-term health and productivity.

Long work hours, especially night shifts, can be particularly damaging to your circadian rhythm, which governs your sleep-wake cycle. Night shifts can take years off your life and wreak havoc on your body. While sometimes necessary, it’s critical to find a balance—whether you’re working weekends, early mornings, or late nights.

Balancing Work Hours with Life and Health

The standard workweek in construction is around 40 to 48 hours, with anything over 48 hours generally requiring overtime pay. While overtime might offer a short-term productivity boost, studies have shown that sustained overtime leads to diminishing returns, particularly after about six weeks. Beyond this point, fatigue sets in, causing productivity to drop and mistakes to increase.

When considering overtime, it’s vital to monitor not just the hours worked, but also the overall morale and well-being of the crew. Overworking can lead to workers spending more time away from their families and loved ones, which negatively impacts their overall happiness and mental health.

Seasonal and Regional Influences on Work Hours

Work hours in construction can also vary due to seasonal changes and regional conditions. For instance, in hot climates like Phoenix, workers often start as early as 4:30 a.m. to avoid the midday heat, while in colder regions, work may be scheduled later in the day to take advantage of warmer temperatures. Flexibility is key, but it’s crucial to avoid overextending workers during these peak periods.

Regulatory factors can also play a significant role in determining work hours. Local regulations, union agreements, and project-specific requirements can all impose restrictions on when and how long work can be performed. It’s essential for employers and workers alike to be aware of these regulations to avoid potential penalties and ensure a safe working environment.

Why Overworking Isn’t Worth the Risk

The bottom line is clear: overworking your crew is not only unproductive in the long run, but it can also be dangerous. Fatigued workers are more likely to make mistakes, leading to rework, delays, and a decrease in overall project quality. A study by the US government found that while overtime can temporarily increase productivity, it begins to decline after the second week and drops off significantly after six weeks due to fatigue.

As leaders and employers, it’s our responsibility to recognize the limits of our workers and create environments that promote both productivity and well-being. If you love your work, you must also love the supportive elements that make it possible—breaks, reasonable work hours, and conditions that promote safety and health.

Conclusion: Prioritize Balance and Well-Being

For those entering the construction industry, understanding the typical work hours and the factors that influence them is crucial. For employers, it’s imperative to maintain a balance that respects the well-being of your crew. In the long run, ensuring that your workers are well-rested and healthy will lead to better outcomes for both your projects and your team’s lives.