Piecework

The system works in such a way that the parties in their professional life have negotiated detailed price lists - piecework tariffs - within individual areas of construction, where individual working tasks are described along with a valuation. Piecework tariffs apply throughout the country and only the Fellesforbundet trade union and employers can change them after negotiations. The piecework team can negotiate allowances based on local conditions. The estimator calculates prices for everything that`s poduced and sets the hourly rate. For the work of the estimator the work teams pays a measurement fee.

The Trade Union of Construction Workers employs estimators for concrete, plumbing, painting and masonry works. The measurement fee is 3%. Cost estimators also help individual work teams in concluding local contracts and can track production. The measurement office also organizes courses, both for union members and in companies.

Not all construction workers work on piecework tariffs. Some receive a fixed hourly rate, while others work on internal piecework contracts. Also in such systems there are rules contained in the collective agreement, and the company workplace branch can enter into an agreement under which the measurement office exercises control and assists the piecework brigades. The measurement office of the Construction Workers' Union also takes measurements in other districts, unless there is a local measurement office there.