The effects of COVID-19 on the construction sector: Before and after

The present study focuses on the occupational and chronic diseases, symptoms, and impacts among construction workers both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic period. The study also examines the relationship between construction workers' work, family and life satisfaction, and their work productivity during this period. In order to achieve this objective, a questionnaire was administered to 150 construction site workers. Although no occupational diseases were officially diagnosed as a result of the study, it was determined that many workers had chronic conditions such as respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and eye diseases, as well as psychological disorders, and that the severity of these conditions increased post-pandemic. In addition to this finding, a positive correlation was found between overall employment duration and disease severity. These findings suggest that the immune systems of workers who are exposed to harsh and hazardous construction site conditions for extended periods are negatively affected, and as a result of occupational deformation, their bodies' responses to diseases are adverse or severe. Furthermore, symptoms of the COVID-19 were categorized into four distinct groups: upper respiratory tract infections, viral infections, impairment in cognitive functions, and psychiatric disorders. The consequences of the disease were also analyzed under two overarching categories: upper respiratory tract infections and cognitive function impairment. The findings indicate a decline in job satisfaction, family relationships, and overall life satisfaction among workers. The study provides recommendations for employers to implement more effective pandemic management concerning worker health.