Understanding the climate-resilient productivity of construction workers: a job demands–resources perspective

Purpose Consequences of climate change-related events, e.g. heat stress and cold stress, have affected the physical and mental health of workers resulting in loss of productivity. However, there is a gap in body of knowledge in case of understanding climate resilient productivity. Therefore, this study aims to explore the factors that influence climate resilient productivity of construction workers. Design/methodology/approach As part of the study a survey instrument was prepared and administered online amongst the construction workers in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and 420 responses were received. The resulting dataset was analysed using covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM). Findings The structural model identified significant associations between respondents' perception of workplace environment (ß = 0.71), strategic planning (ß = 0.65) and worker well-being (ß = 0.59) and climate-resilient productivity capabilities. These observations can be used by the organisations to develop long-term strategies for improving their workers productivity and make them resilient to extreme climatic conditions. Originality/value The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the understanding of climate-resilient productivity by providing an empirically grounded conceptualisation and a context-specific measurement framework. The study extends the resource pathway of the JD-R model by identifying workplace, organisational and worker-related resources associated with productive continuity under climatic exposure.