A review of work-life balance in the construction industry

Over the past decade, work-life balance (WLB) has induced growing attention in the construction industry due to the concomitant effects on the mental health of construction workers, turnover rate and project performance. Numerous empirical studies have been conducted on various themes on WLB in the construction industry. Nevertheless, a systematic review of the extant studies, which is critical for future venture is scanty. This paper systematically reviews 40 extant literature on WLB in the construction industry from 1999 to 2019 (years inclusive). Main research method, causes of poor WLB, WLB interventions and WLB initiatives of both developed and developing countries are identified in the literature. The findings of the study contribute to the comprehensive understanding of causes of poor WLB, WLB interventions and initiatives in the construction industry and sparked future research study based on the identified significant knowledge gaps. To the practitioners, the identified causes of poor WLB would assist in determining construction project management practices leading to work-life imbalance, and strategic interventions to mitigate the causes. Drivers of WLB initiatives retrieved from previous studies would help practitioners to manage organizational, team and individual factors shaping the adoption of the initiatives.

Automated summary

This paper provides a systematic review of 40 literature on work-life balance (WLB) in the construction industry, analyzing the main research methods, causes of poor WLB, WLB interventions, and initiatives. The findings fill important knowledge gaps and assist practitioners in determining management practices and interventions.