The construction industry is vital to our modern lives. Without construction workers, many of the buildings, roads, and structures that we use on a daily basis would not be standing. Unfortunately, this important industry is also plagued by a serious and pervasive problem: sexual harassment.
Exploring the Problem of Sexual Harassment in the Construction Sector
Most would agree that construction work is much unlike the office jobs that dominate today’s typical workplace. Construction workers are often forced to work in close proximity to each other, climbing scaffolding or working on ladders in tight spaces. This can make some workers a little too comfortable when it comes to making inappropriate comments or touching other workers.
Furthermore, the construction industry is overwhelmingly male. Only about four percent of construction workers are women. Although sexual harassment can happen to anyone of any sex, sexual orientation, or gender expression, statistics show that sexual harassment is more common when there is a major disparity in gender within a workplace. One survey found that 66 percent of respondents claim to have experienced sexual harassment or gender bias while working in the construction industry.
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