AN ASSESSMENT OF LABOUR MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON BUILDING SITE IN FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC IDAH, KOGI STATE

This study explores labour management practices and challenges encountered in building construction projects across Idah Kogi State, Nigeria. The research adopts a descriptive survey design and utilizes structured questionnaires administered to 21 respondents comprising site engineers, Builders, Architect, foremen, contractors, skilled workers, Quantity Surveying, and other site-based personnel. The analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics and the Mean values to rank the significance of practices and challenges observed. Findings revealed that assigning clear roles and responsibilities, regular supervision, and effective communication were the most prominent labour management practices, with high Mean value (Mean) values of 4.33, 4.10, and 4.00 respectively. Conversely, practices such as regular training and time management tools ranked lower, indicating areas requiring improvement. In terms of challenges, inconsistent wage policies emerged as the most critical issue (Mean = 4.00), followed closely by poor communication, adverse environmental conditions, and shortage of skilled labour. The study concluded that while some management practices are well-implemented, significant challenges persist, particularly regarding wage structures, communication, and environmental disruptions. It recommends that construction stakeholders adopt fair wage systems, improve communication channels, strengthen safety and training programs, and implement better planning for weather-related disruptions. Addressing these factors is essential to improving labour productivity, reducing delays, and enhancing overall project delivery in the Federal Polytechnic Idah.