Building a Better Future: Five Years of BCCA's Builders Code Revolutionizing Construction Culture

In the construction industry, building codes are regulations that must be adhered to to improve the quality of structures and the protection of construction workers. Nevertheless, there are also builder's code training programs, such as the British Columbia Construction Association's (BCCA), designed to enhance the construction culture and prevent discrimination or other forms of abuse.

(Photo : Pexels/Sami Abdullah )

Revolutionizing Construction Culture through BCCA's Builders Code

The construction sector faces significant challenges in terms of workplace culture, and training in the Builders Code helps solve these challenges. This resource, designed for both employers and employees, considers productivity and key safety goals, including psychological safety.

Moreover, reflecting on the past five years of the BCCA Builders Code program, one can assess the industry's current state, acknowledge the progress made, and comprehend the amount of work still to be done. British Columbia's construction business needs to cast a wider net to find and keep a more diverse workforce because it has difficulty hiring people.

As mentioned, efforts must ensure that the workplace is inclusive and accessible to harassment, discrimination, and abuse. A crucial component of the BCCA's workforce development plan, the Builders Code program establishes a uniform code of behavior for employees in the building sector, from the job site to the boardroom. These main principles outline the program's fundamental values.

Furthermore, by accessing the training and materials provided by the Builders Code and joining the Builders Code Pledge for an Acceptable Worksite, you can send a clear message to both your current employees and those looking for work that your workplace is a positive and secure environment. This self-directed course reportedly aims to foster a new perspective on construction culture and offer a deeper understanding of its significance. Practical tools will be acquired to establish and cultivate a workplace culture that advocates for inclusion, equity, and diversity to ensure your company's prosperity and a growing construction industry.

Also Read: Groundbreaking TBM Operation Begins for the World's Longest Subsea High-Speed Railway Tunnel in China

Addressing Discrimination and Bullying in Construction? 

Across a variety of industries and organizational levels, workplace abuse is a pervasive issue that affects nearly half of the American workforce. Bullying in the workplace acts like a toxic substance, harming the well-being of those targeted, damaging the company's reputation, and reducing employee productivity. While it may seem challenging, it's important to remember that it's not impossible to prevent certain behaviors in the building from becoming abusive when they become ingrained in the company culture, such as hazing apprentices.  

On the other hand, even though hardiness and resilience are typically associated with the construction business, these problems continue to exist in our sector, which calls for greater awareness of the situation and effective methods to counteract it. To combat the prevalent issue of bullying and harassment in the construction sector, it is essential that companies take the lead in establishing a secure work environment that is inclusive and respectful of all individuals. 

The process entails establishing a culture of respect and inclusion in which mistreatment is not tolerated, and explicit expectations are established. When confronted with bullying, employees should review the organization's policies, seek advice from individuals they know and trust, attempt to resolve the situation informally, and, if necessary, adhere to the official complaint procedures. 

Accordingly, in a positive work environment, all individuals experience feelings of safety, appreciation, respect, and value. It is the right of every individual to work in an environment that is free of discrimination, sexual harassment, and threat. 

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