Study finds racism, discrimination common in construction industry

A new study commissioned by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) found that workplace discrimination of minority groups and women was common in the construction industry.

Seventy-two percent of Black respondents and 66% of women respondents to a NIBS survey said they have experienced discrimination or prejudice while at work. Other non-white racial groups also reported discrimination at levels ranging from 35% to 48%.

Many of the respondents reporting discrimination said they had to work harder than others to be valued in their roles in the commercial and residential building industries. The study is intended to help NIBS and its stakeholders to quantify the problem and identify where efforts to combat it are needed.

NIBS said it will compile and share best practices with industry leaders.