Dive Brief:
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It's common to hear women complaining about construction workers who whistle and comment on their appearance as they pass by job sites. But those crew members are saying they're the ones being ogled and chatted up—by pedestrians who bother them while they're working.
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In a British survey of 493 construction workers, 42% said members of the public objectify them with stares and comments. They also said people constantly tell them how to do their jobs; steal from the worksites; unfairly perceive them as “letches” and disrespect safety barriers.
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The laborers, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters in the survey said they try to behave appropriately while on their job sites.
Dive Insight:
The public, of course, has a different view. The same survey included 1,809 members of the general public, who said they’re tired of seeing builders' “bums” when they bend over. Their four other top complaints about work crews: stares and inappropriate comments; dangerous driving; cursing; and playing loud music.