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Spring is just around the corner. The days are getting longer, the temperature is rising and the flowers are beginning to bloom. While many are looking forward to the new season, it also presents the construction sector with a host of challenges. The annual Boels Rental Construction Index* has examined the sector’s biggest hurdles. Below, we present to you the three biggest challenges of spring.
1. Construction sector at the mercy of spring
April showers may bring May flowers, but that certainly doesn’t help the construction sector much in the meantime. Roughly one third of construction professionals (30%) encounter problems due to unpredictable spring weather that affects their work. Chilly, rainy and stormy weather regularly causes delays for construction projects, as 27 percent reported. Marshy soil, flooding and moisture (19%) also make for difficult conditions at construction sites. Muddy or frozen surfaces can also make construction sites difficult to access. On top of that, cold and moisture increase the risk of equipment breaking down, which in turn can cause further delays. In short, spring calls for extra flexibility, careful planning and well-maintained equipment to minimise disruptions and to help you stay on track.
2. More construction projects, higher workloads
Although the weather can be unpredictable in spring, this time of year often marks the start of the construction season. A lot of companies start new projects.
Starting several projects simultaneously can create even more challenges, as reported by 18 percent of construction professionals. A busy start to the construction season can increase the workload for a select group (5%).
3. Sick leave bears down on construction sector in spring
In addition, 16 percent of construction professionals see an increase in absenteeism during the spring. This may be due to seasonal complaints such as allergies and the spring flu. The transition from cold to warmer weather can weaken the immune system, making employees more susceptible to colds or other health issues. Unexpected absenteeism can put construction projects under added pressure. Flexible planning in construction projects and adequate staffing are important for preventing delays and maintaining a balanced workload for the team.
*The survey was conducted by research agency Markteffect among 402 Dutch people working in the construction industry.
