Links between worker morale, employee engagement and feeling safe at work will be investigated in a new University of the Sunshine Coast study based at civil engineering firm Shadforth at Forest Glen.
The research project on Shadforth which provides civil construction for major developers including Lend Lease and Stockland is one of five to be conducted in a funding partnership between the university and firm involved.
Human Resource Management lecturer Dr John Whiteoak will analyse data collected from surveys collected from the company’s 700 employees and the results will build on his previous research conducted over the past eight years involving companies in mining, construction, manufacturing and road building industries.
“The zone of engagement survey that I’ve developed measures elements of the workplace culture and the individual workers,” Dr Whiteoak said. “I’m interested in researching what the levers of morale are and how we can work with them.”
The USC academic will also conduct focus groups to consider some of the challenges facing staff, and work towards developing strategies to address challenges, improve employee engagement, and ensure a well-adjusted and safe workplace.
Shadforth Group Risk Manager Glen Panoho said the company was always looking for ways to stay ahead in the industry.
“We can use the science to improve our people and our business, and we can share any learnings with our industry partners,” he said.
