The built environment professionals, including architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, etc., play a crucial role in shaping our world. They are responsible for designing, constructing, and managing the built environment, from skyscrapers to bridges, ensuring safety, functionality, and sustainability. Despite their vital role, these professionals face various industry challenges and issues.
While legal entities and associations represent these professionals (EBK, BORAQs, AAK, IEK, IQSK), these bodies do not have the power of a labour union).
Who shall genuinely protect the rights of the professionals in this industry? We have so many people masquerading as engineers and architects in the industry that it has become normalized by society and the media. Moreover, this is at the expense of the society. For how many buildings have collapsed because masqueraders were involved? How many buildings have been razed by electrical fires because masqueraders were involved? How many developers and ordinary citizens get scammed and conned daily by masqueraders? A union could aggressively go after such masqueraders and be the voice of the built environment professionals.
If other professionals, like doctors, teachers, lecturers, etc., have unions, why not the professionals in the built environment?
The associations representing the built environment professionals should come together and sponsor the creation of such a union. It will go a long way in ensuring their welfare is catered to and upholds the dignity of the professionals. Such professions used to be highly regarded in the past, as they were sure pathways to life of dignity and wealth.
Reasons why a union for built environment professionals is necessary.
1. Advocating for Workers’ Rights
One of the primary reasons for forming a union for built environment professionals is to advocate for their rights. These professionals often work in demanding and competitive industries, and issues such as long working hours, safety concerns, and fair compensation are common. A union can negotiate on their behalf, ensuring their rights and welfare are protected.
2. Collective Bargaining Power
A union provides built environment professionals with collective bargaining power. It allows them to negotiate with employers as a unified front rather than individually. This collective strength can lead to better working conditions, fair wages, and improved benefits. Unions can also help set industry standards, ensuring professionals are compensated appropriately for their expertise.
3. Professional Development and Training
Continuous learning is essential in the rapidly evolving field of construction and design. A union can provide resources and opportunities for professional development and training. The union can help its members stay updated with industry trends and technologies by offering workshops, seminars, and educational resources.
4. Health and Safety
Safety is paramount for built environment professionals, given the inherent construction and engineering work risks. A union can advocate for improved safety standards and practices, ensuring its members work in safe environments. Additionally, the union can support workers in case of accidents or health issues arising from their work.
5. Job Security
In today’s competitive job market, job security is a significant concern. A union can work to protect its members from arbitrary layoffs and unfair terminations. It can establish job security agreements, ensuring that professionals have peace of mind regarding their employment.
6. Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Promoting ethical and sustainable practices is becoming increasingly important in the built environment. A union can serve as a platform for advocating responsible design and construction, promoting sustainable materials and practices, and pushing for renewable energy sources.
7. Networking and Collaboration
A union offers a platform for professionals to network and collaborate. It fosters a sense of community and unity among members, providing a forum for sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas. Collaboration can lead to improved solutions in the field and more significant contributions to the industry.
Built environment professionals, including architects, engineers, and quantity surveyors, significantly impact our world. A union can serve as a valuable resource, advocating for their rights, providing collective bargaining power, offering professional development opportunities, ensuring safety, and promoting ethical practices. As these professionals continue to shape our built environment, a union can help them work in more favourable conditions, drive positive change in the industry, and secure their place as essential contributors to society.
Architects at a New York Firm Form the Industry’s Only Private-Sector Union
