The role of direct labour organizations within the construction industry

Abstract

The thesis examines the history, structure, organizationand performance of direct labour organizations. The basic theme is that productivity in direct labour organizations is comparable to those of contractors despite the peculiar operating conditions which govern the activities of direct labour. If this is seen to be so then the less tangible benefits of direct labour will come into sharper focus. These factors have been identified as safety, training of apprentices, quality of workmanship, stability of labour and service to the community they serve. The thesis reviews these aspects and makes comparisons with contractors and uses case studies to amplify the discussion. The case studies consider direct labour and contractor organized construction sites and the effect of the building performance upon maintenance requirements for a series of local authority housing estates. The use of direct labour outside local authorities is discussed and finally the legislation affecting direct labour organization is reviewed.