Author: MECN Adminstrator
Gender diversity can infuse the construction industry with fresh ideas and skills, without which the cities, structures and infrastructure of tomorrow will not be realised. While there are now more women in the industry than ever before, the construction sector and the firms within it are still male dominated and must evolve, to attract and retain more women professionals.
Discussion Points:
The study and roll out of international best practices to improve overall construction site safety in the region.
Ensuring that project sites are set-up and run appropriately for women and men. Sites should have adequate-sized safety equipment and gender-neutral signage to push the fact that women as well as men are on site.
Availability of an equal number of secure sanitary facilities in easy-to-access and well-lit areas of the construction site are critical to prevent a variety of issues.
HS&E training should be routine and must cater to the specific needs of women and men. For pregnant women, the training should include major do’s and don’ts and best practices.
Certain chemicals, such as lead, are frequently found at construction sites. They are a hazard for both women and men but are particularly hazardous to pregnant women – how can this be addressed?
Companies should be open to and encourage a ‘see something, say something, do something’ mindset on project sites. Currently HS&E issues are left unchecked for a number of reasons including a ‘that’s just the way it is’ or an ‘I’ll deal with it’ mindset.
Discussion Points:
Early engagement at the high school level, so students have an idea about a potential career in the construction sector and can pick subjects accordingly.
The industry should work closer with colleges and universities to develop future-friendly curriculums, nurture talent via mentorship, office visits and competitions.
How can cultural barriers that push many educated professionals to abandon their careers for family life be addressed?
Consultants and contractors should launch/expand well-thought-out internship programmes for students, as well as fresh graduates.
Colleges and universities should enrich their curriculum to include a healthy dose of practical and/or on-site experience.
Mentors that cater specifically to fresh joiners to show them the ropes and get them settled are imperative.
Diversity & Inclusion: Fostering Women’s Empowerment in Construction by Clare Evans, Project Manager and Business Change Leader at SNC-Lavalin and Rachel Collins, Head of Procurement – Middle East at Faithful+Gould
Women in Construction Summit hosted by Middle East Consultant shone a light on gender imbalance in the sector and discussed key issues through presentations and panel discussions. Delegates heard inspirational stories from women who are already making their mark in the industry and companies that are working to balance the gender scales.
The first-ever Truck and Fleet brings industry together in Dubai