The impact of commute length on safety and wellbeing in UK construction workers

This paper, contributing a small part to a related PhD, uses a systematic literature review approach to examine the impact of commuting on fatigue, safety and wellbeing among construction workers. Eight empirical studies were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis with three themes being identified: commute length, long working hours and commuting vs staying away from home. The results indicate that commutes can far exceed the UK average commute length, and this, combined with long working hours, reduces sleep opportunities. However, staying away from home introduces lifestyle and environmental factors, such as diet and exercise, which may also impair sleep. Fatigue related to lack of sleep and lifestyle factors increases risks to safety both on and off site. This review highlights a lack of specific research relating to commuting, fatigue and safety in the UK construction industry, demonstrating a need for further empirical study in this area to inform fatigue risk management strategies, and industry policy.