Wage costs in civil construction in developed countries

How is the demand for labor in places considered first-world?

Developed countries are constantly used as examples of good workplaces, service provision, and access to basic rights. This is because these countries have strong economies, which provide good functionality for their systems. The list of first-world countries includes Canada, the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.

In addition to having functional systems, these countries have great access to technology. Some of them are even considered references in technology products, such as Japan and the United States. While Japan excels in creating machines, the USA is responsible for the biggest technology companies in the world, such as Apple. This influence in the technology market extends to other areas of these countries, including construction, which has one of the best construction industry solutions in the world.

In this article, we will discuss more about how the construction industry works in these wealthier countries and explore the myths and truths behind the contracts of workers who often come from different parts of the world in search of better working conditions in these countries.

1. Foreign workers

A large percentage of the workforce in the construction sector consists of workers who come from different backgrounds than the countries they want to work in. This is because this sector requires a lot of physical work, and many natives refuse these types of jobs, so foreigners end up working in this area.

Having a job registered by the contracting company is a significant positive factor that helps guarantee a stay visa in the country. This strategy is often used by Latin Americans traveling to the United States and Canada. Other examples include African natives who travel to European countries to work in the construction sector.

Even if workers are foreigners, labor rules and rights must be applied, as there can be no discrimination among employees. To ensure rights such as retirement and salary benefits in case of accidents, it is necessary for the employee to be duly registered by the company, or the company may face high fines.

2. Construction excellence

These developed countries are considered references in construction. Japan can be used as the best example of this, as a country that has already suffered from natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes but has never had problems rebuilding its roads, buildings, and houses after these tragedies. Japan is an example of excellence and works within and outside Asian concepts.

Nordic countries are also examples of construction excellence, as most construction projects are carried out in extreme climates. These countries are known for their low temperatures and for experiencing some of the worst snowstorms on the planet. However, even the hostile climate does not prevent the construction of buildings and roads.

3. Technology and Construction

Construction projects are carried out in short periods of time or even under low temperatures because there is an operating system that facilitates the work. Many engineers and architects in developed countries are experts in technology, allowing them to manage software and machines that not only reduce the chances of risk in construction but also aim for good performance.

For example, in countries where earthquake risks are high, such as Japan, construction professionals need to develop projects that reduce the impacts of possible earthquakes. This is only possible with the use of technology, which helps professionals analyze the soil. The state of the soil is crucial for engineers to make the best choices for materials. This is how these countries remain great references in the field of construction.