TECHNICAL PAPERS
Dec 1, 1991

Factors Affecting Masonry‐Labor Productivity

Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 117, Issue 4

Abstract

Past studies of masonry‐labor productivity fail to accurately identify the factors that most affect masonry productivity and to quantify the factors' effects. This paper describes a methodology to identify and quantify the project‐related factors that significantly affect masonry productivity. Standardized data‐collection techniques are used to collect and consolidate data from 11 central Pennsylvania masonry projects. Exploratory analyses are performed to determine which factors most affect productivity. The factors identified are the work type, building element, construction methods, design requirements, and weather. More detailed analyses indicate that: (1) Data from multiple projects can be consolidated to obtain statistically valid results; (2) repetitive designs can effect a 30% improvement in productivity; (3) designs that require extensive layout and cutting can negatively affect productivity by as much as 40%; and (4) the effects of weather on masonry productivity are not well understood and deserve additional research.

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Go to Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 117Issue 4December 1991
Pages: 626 - 644

History

Published online: Dec 1, 1991
Published in print: Dec 1991

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Authors

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Steve R. Sanders
Asst. Prof., Dept. of Civ. Engrg., 238 Harbert Engrg. Ctr., Auburn Univ., AL 36849‐5337
H. Randolph Thomas, Member, ASCE
Prof., Dept. of Civ. Engrg., Pennsylvania Transp. Inst., Res. Building B, Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA 16802

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