Pokhrel, P.; Jin, X.; Osei-Kyei, R. and Alashwal, A. (2026) Primary preventive strategies for white-collar women in Nepal's construction industry: Factor analysis and demographic comparison. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 33(15), pp. 225-248. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose – This study explores primary preventive measures to enhance the occupational well-being of women in the construction industry, using Nepal as a representative case of developing countries. It addresses persistent gender disparities and systemic barriers in the sector. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative research design was adopted along with literature review and expert consultation to develop a context-specific survey instrument. Responses were collected from 153 professional women in construction industry. Data were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), t-tests and ANOVA. Findings – Factor analysis revealed six distinct factors of preventive strategies: job flexibility, inclusivity and well-being, organisational support and equitable workplace culture, equality in policy and practice, maternity support and workplace safety, individual coping and personal growth, and support for domestic role. Perceptions of these strategies varied significantly by marital status, motherhood, educational qualification and work sector. Consultants reported stronger support systems than contractors, while diploma holders perceived higher support in job flexibility and maternity-related measures than degree holders. Work experience showed no significant influence. Practical implications – The study provides a structured foundation for gender-responsive reforms in construction, emphasising the need for tailored strategies based on women's diverse demographic profiles to enhance inclusivity, well-being and retention in the sector. Originality/value – This study fills a critical gap by identifying gender-specific preventive strategies for women in construction in a developing country context. Unlike prior research that focuses on hazards or adopts gender-neutral approaches, it offers an empirically grounded, proactive measure to address the root causes of challenges and promote long-term occupational well-being.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | ANOVA; construction industry; developing country; factor analysis; hazards; mental health; Nepal; preventive measures; primary prevention; well-being; women |
| Index terms: | coping, Nepal, factor analysis, women, construction industry, prevention, disparity, mental health, retention, quantitative research, qualification, methodology, well-being, developing country context, workplace safety, developing country, exploratory factor analysis, literature review, strategy, survey |
| Subjects: | Geography, financial risk, development economics, educational resources, research methods, occupational health, behavioral psychology, social justice, data collection methods, mental health and wellbeing, data analysis and analytics, socioeconomic context, management, industry analysis, statistical analysis, sociology, health conditions and diseases |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Cost Management, Business Strategy, Governance, Human Resources, International Construction, Geographical Context, Health and Safety, Ethics, Education |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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