Modeling psychosocial hazards affecting professional construction employees: ISM-MICMAC approach

The construction industry, a major global employer, sees a high prevalence of psychological distress, as evidenced by high rates of depression and suicide. Previous studies have recognized that these distress levels are directly related to the exposure to psychosocial hazards (PSHs), both within and outside the work environment. Despite growing interest in addressing these hazards, studies remain limited, particularly within the construction industry and have primarily focused on site-based workers, overlooking professional-level employees. Therefore, this study identifies PSHs affecting professional-level construction employees and analyzes their interrelationships. Initially, a systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to identify the PSHs affecting the construction workforce, and categorized into three groups: (1) work environment-related PSHs, (2) personal PSHs, and (3) socioeconomic PSHs. A questionnaire survey was then shortlisted the PSHs most specific to professional-level employees. These were further analyzed using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) techniques, to establish a hierarchical structure and classify PSHs based on driving and dependence power. Findings revealed that macro-level PSHs, such as contractual pressures and competitive industry environment, contribute to meso-level organizational and project-related PSHs, including bureaucracy and role conflicts. These lead to micro-level individual issues such as poor work-life balance and mental health challenges. Addressing macro-level PSHs is, therefore, crucial, because it would help address issues at lower levels. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by offering a structured prioritization of PSHs, a foundation for focused research and targeted interventions that enhance employee well-being in the construction industry.