Dismantling Discrimination: Women's Bureau Addresses Gender-Based Violence in Construction

Women are more likely to be subjected to discrimination than men, particularly in fields that require manual labor, such as the construction industry. As a result, the Women's Bureau recently held an event addressing gender-based violence in the building sector.

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Webinar on Gender-Based Violence in Construction

On March 5, a webinar was held by the Department of Labor Women's Bureau and the OSHA to discuss gender-based violence and harassment in the construction business. A male-dominated culture in the construction industry, according to Women's Bureau Director Wendy Chun-Hoon, can increase the likelihood of gender-based violence and harassment, which consists of a variety of offensive practices, threats, or behaviors directed at individuals based on their sex or gender.

Instances of such conduct may consist of tracking, human trafficking, threats, manipulation, force, domestic abuse, sexual harassment, bullying, or dating violence. As Chun-Hoon pointed out, each can constitute a significant obstacle to the recruitment and retention of construction workers.

According to one of the guest speakers of the webinar, Sheet metal worker Shamaiah Turner, the most challenging component of her occupation had not been the work itself but rather the fact that she has had to deal with people who have made her feel not only physically but also socially unsafe. Turner has worked in the construction sector for twelve years. During that time, she has experienced no difficulties lifting large items, working at height regularly, or operating heavy gear.

She asserted that the construction industry is inherently hazardous; hence, Turner, as well as a significant number of others, are rendered vulnerable if her attention is divided while she is moving about and attempting to avoid other hostile colleagues or if she is trying to ward off the person who has been making advances toward her.

Moreover, her labor union, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers, was credited by Turner for fostering a culture of mentorship and solidarity among its members through the 'I Got Your Back' campaign. Accordingly, it incorporates gender-neutral language into its constitution, instituting stringent punishments for bullying, harassment, and hazing, and provides a multitude of resources to assist in the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women and other minorities.

Also Read: 7 Types of Brick Bonds in Construction

Discrimination and Harassment of Women in Construction

Gender-based violence is perpetrated with the intent to degrade and enslave an individual or group of individuals and is predicated on a power imbalance. These violent acts have their origins deeply ingrained in the social and cultural institutions, norms, and values that govern society. Additionally, they are frequently maintained by a culture characterized by silence and denial. On a disproportionately larger scale, women are the victims of gender-based violence, which can occur in both private and public spaces.

On the other hand, for decades, the construction sector has been male-dominated, and many jobsite policies exclude women. Despite being outlawed, workplace sex discrimination and anti-women sentiments persist. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) discovered that within one year, 41% of female construction workers experienced gender harassment. Based on the findings of the CWIT survey, 88% of the respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment.

Thus, working alone or being shunned by coworkers raises concerns about assault and stress. Many tradeswomen reportedly fear being labeled complainers or whiners for reporting workplace safety and health issues, which could damage their relationships and job prospects.

Related Article: Most Challenging Problems Faced by Women in the Construction Industry