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Article
Publication date: 16 January 2024

Soundarya Priya M.G., Anandh K.S., Sathyanarayanan Rajendran and Krishna Nirmalya Sen

This study aims to explore the “psychological contract of safety” (PCS), a key factor in the safety climate (SC), which relies on the behavioral safety actions of workers at…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the “psychological contract of safety” (PCS), a key factor in the safety climate (SC), which relies on the behavioral safety actions of workers at construction sites. While numerous factors have been identified in various sectors across different countries, there is a consensus among researchers that there is a dearth of common assessment factors specifically for the Indian construction industry (ICI). Therefore, this study undertakes a systematic review of existing literature to identify the factors that determine PCS in construction and to ascertain the relative importance index (RII) of these variables and their interrelationships using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Design/methodology/approach

A structured survey was conducted among 420 professionals in the ICI to collect data. This data was then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to derive results.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate that PCS factors have a significant impact on the construction industry (CI). The inferential analysis ranks “Safety System” as the top factor with the highest RII value. The chi-square results highlight two key SC factors that enhance and regulate an organization’s safety performance. The SEM results reveal that SC factors contribute to the improvement of PCS and influence worker safety behavior.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this study will be beneficial for stakeholders aiming to improve safety at construction sites and enhance safety performance by fulfilling the mutual safety obligations of employers and employees and by improving safety norms, procedures and policy-making. This paper also provides a theoretical framework for scholars to reassess the results in various contexts.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 May 2024

Afiqah R. Radzi, Anandh K. S., Ahmad Rizal Alias, Mohammed Algahtany and Rahimi A. Rahman

A good workplace well-being (WWB) has many positive impacts on individuals and organizations. Prior studies indicate that physical, psychological and social well-being factors…

Abstract

Purpose

A good workplace well-being (WWB) has many positive impacts on individuals and organizations. Prior studies indicate that physical, psychological and social well-being factors positively influence WWB. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that these factors may exhibit variations across different regions, cultural contexts and workplace environments. Therefore, this study aims to explore and validate the relationships between physical, psychological and social well-being factors and WWB at construction sites across different regions, using Malaysia and India as case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was proposed between physical, psychological and social well-being factors and WWB at construction sites. Then, a questionnaire survey was developed based on the proposed model and distributed to construction industry practitioners in both countries. In total, 316 responses were collected and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and multigroup analysis.

Findings

The analyses indicate that the proposed model on physical, psychological and social well-being factors and WWB at construction sites is valid. Also, the model has no significant differences between the two countries. Thus, the findings show that the physical, psychological and social well-being factors are similarly affecting WWB at construction sites in both countries.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in its holistic and cross-regional examination of WWB at construction sites. The insights gained from this study provide evidence for promoting good health and well-being in the construction industry. Moreover, this study seeks to provide insights that transcend geographical boundaries, offering valuable implications for promoting WWB practices in construction projects worldwide.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 April 2022

Mohammad S. Al-Mohammad, Ahmad Tarmizi Haron, Muneera Esa, Mohammad Numan Aloko, Yasir Alhammadi, K.S. Anandh and Rahimi A. Rahman

This study aims to empirically analyze the symmetries and asymmetries among the critical factors affecting building information modeling (BIM) implementation between countries…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to empirically analyze the symmetries and asymmetries among the critical factors affecting building information modeling (BIM) implementation between countries with different income levels. To achieve that aim, the study objectives are to identify: critical factors affecting BIM implementation in low-, lower-middle-, upper-middle- and high-income countries; overlapping critical factors between countries with different income levels; and agreements on the critical factors between countries with different income levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identified potential BIM implementation factors using a systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews with architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals. Then, the factors were inserted into a questionnaire survey and sent to AEC professionals in Afghanistan, India, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. The collected data was analyzed using the following techniques and tests: mean, standard deviation, normalized value, Kruskal–Wallis, Dunn and Mann–Whitney.

Findings

Five critical factors overlap between all countries: “availability of guidelines for implementing BIM,” “cost-benefit of implementing BIM,” “stakeholders’ willingness to learn the BIM method,” “consistent views on BIM between stakeholders” and “existence of standard contracts on liability and risk allocation.” Also, the criticality of the factors often differs between income levels, especially between low- and high-income countries, suggesting a significant gap between low- and high-income countries in BIM implementation.

Originality/value

This study differs from prior works by empirically analyzing the symmetries and asymmetries in BIM implementation factors between countries with different income levels (i.e. low-, lower-middle-, upper-middle- and high-income countries).

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 23 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2022

M. Hazeen Fathima and C. Umarani

More attention should be paid to human resource management practices, as they play a vital role in the retention of the skilled workforce for improved competitive advantage and…

1062

Abstract

Purpose

More attention should be paid to human resource management practices, as they play a vital role in the retention of the skilled workforce for improved competitive advantage and reduced skill shortage. This study aims to examine the impact of engineers' satisfaction regarding fairness in key human resource management practices such as performance management, compensation and pay, and employee relations on their intention to stay in Indian construction firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was undertaken using a questionnaire survey conducted among 230 engineers working in Indian construction firms. Data collection was done by using self-administered questionnaires. The quantitative analysis of the collected data was carried out. The constructs involved in the study were validated using factor analysis. The correlation and regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between engineers' satisfaction with fairness in human resource practices and their intention to stay.

Findings

Results showed that satisfaction with fairness in human resource practices, such as performance management and employee relations are positively related to engineers' intention to stay, whereas satisfaction with fairness in employee relation practices highly predicts engineers' intention to stay.

Originality/value

This study adds to the body of knowledge by examining the impact of engineers' satisfaction with fairness in human resource practices on their intention to stay in the Indian construction sector, which is an under-researched area. Satisfaction with fairness in employee relation practices is identified as the strongest predictor of engineers' intention to stay. The finding of the research could help construction companies develop human resource practices and policies to promote the retention of construction professionals, particularly engineers, who work for them.

Details

Employee Relations: The International Journal, vol. 45 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0142-5455

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 September 2022

R.V.K. Vigneshwar and S. Shanmugapriya

Proper prediction of productivity can enable the enhanced estimation, realistic scheduling, and accurate cost forecasting of construction processes. Due to the existence of…

Abstract

Purpose

Proper prediction of productivity can enable the enhanced estimation, realistic scheduling, and accurate cost forecasting of construction processes. Due to the existence of different labor sources (unionized and non-unionized), the prediction of productivity is still a significant problem in India. Moreover, the construction procurement processes and on-site performance are the predominant elements that can result in improved project outcomes. Thereby, the consideration of labor constraints and site conditions will play an important role in productivity improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the factors affecting construction site productivity. A total of 28 factors are grouped under 7 categories as follows: labor constraints, safety and quality procurements, material and equipment (ME), site management, project working condition, delay controls, construction methods and techniques, and external factors. Furthermore, by involving these factors, the questionnaire survey was conducted among Indian construction practitioners. As a result, 204 responses were received and the data were analyzed using a reliability test, relative importance index (RII), and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Findings

The result of this study highlighted the importance of strategic construction management activities in terms of effective planning of ME, planning and realistic scheduling of construction activities, proper communication, information sharing, etc. Thus, this study provides a clear insight to the Indian construction practitioners in determining the effect of these site factors on the successful execution of their projects.

Originality/value

In this paper, the problem of construction productivity in India and its causes are explained effectively. This study examines the preference of labor contract, labor source, and most importantly, the factors affecting site productivity. Moreover, the other lagging issues regarding the management of construction activities are also described in detail.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2020

Nikhil K. Mehta and Sumi Jha

The purpose of the study is to understand the team communication skill among students with engineering background.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to understand the team communication skill among students with engineering background.

Design/methodology/approach

Labour market offers more employment to those who have better social skills than those who fair less on these skills. It is pertinent to integrate these skills among engineers. In the study, a Qual-quant-Qual platform was created to develop social skill andragogy for engineers from India. Involving 132 engineers, the authors gathered qualitative and quantitative data to understand their perspective on communication and the emergent factors of team communication skill.

Findings

The qualitative study supports the view that despite theoretical awareness, the actions may differ. The factor analysis of the data revealed five important factors of interpersonal communication. The study offers six utilities in support of andragogy.

Originality/value

The study offers a platform to engineers to internalize and reflect differences in order for the real learning to take place, and it also offers space to faculty members to simulate and offer relevant interventions.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. 11 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 December 2022

Emmanuel Chidiebere Eze, Douglas Omoregie Aghimien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Onyinye Sofolahan

This paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country's perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis.

Findings

The study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement related factors.

Practical implications

The findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation.

Originality/value

While there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particular at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2021

Shoaib Ahmad and Ghulamul Hasnain

Steel fibers reinforced concrete (SFRC) is now widely accepted as a construction material for its added benefits. The proven increases in high shear capacity, toughness, bridging…

Abstract

Purpose

Steel fibers reinforced concrete (SFRC) is now widely accepted as a construction material for its added benefits. The proven increases in high shear capacity, toughness, bridging action of fibers and bond improvement from addition of steel fibers into mix design is a field yet to be explored, Therefore, Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) beam-column joint with steel fibers was modeled and analyzed for cyclic loading.

Design/methodology/approach

Beam-column joint is the most critical section of a structure under mixed loading such as that during a seismic episode. Therefore, in this research a reinforced SFRC beam column joint is modeled and analyzed for cyclic earthquake loading with the help of finite element analysis (FEA) software ABAQUS to compare the results with the experimental study.

Findings

Nonlinear static and nonlinear dynamic analysis are carried out on the SFRC joint for the comparison of simulated results with the experimental analysis.

Originality/value

In this paper, Initially, modeling of SFRC joint was done. Then, the finite element analysis of beam-column joint with steel fibers was carried out. After number of simulations, obtained FEA results were compared with the experimental work on the based on the load vs deflection curve, shear stresses, plastic strain region and plastic strain pattern. After the comparison, it was found that the performance of the numeric model for cyclic loading verified the experimental study, and the results obtained were quite promising.

Details

International Journal of Structural Integrity, vol. 12 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-9864

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 May 2023

Mohammad S. Al-Mohammad, Ahmad Tarmizi Haron, Rahimi A. Rahman and Yasir Alhammadi

This study examines the underlying relationships between the critical factors of building information modeling (BIM) implementation and the factors' groupings among architecture…

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the underlying relationships between the critical factors of building information modeling (BIM) implementation and the factors' groupings among architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) organizations in Saudi Arabia. The objectives of the study are to (1) identify the critical factors for BIM implementation, (2) analyze the interrelationships between the critical factors and (3) compare the critical factors between the different organizational characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

First, potential factors were identified through a systematic literature review and interviews with AEC professionals. Then, a questionnaire survey was sent to AEC professionals and the collected data were analyzed using the following techniques and tests: mean score ranking, standard deviation, normalized value, factor analysis (FA), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc Tukey test.

Findings

The analyses show that 14 factors are critical for BIM implementation in Saudi Arabia. The top critical factors include the existence of standard contracts on data security and user confidentiality, consistent views on BIM among stakeholders and the availability of guidelines for implementing BIM. Of the 14 critical factors, 9 can be grouped into 4 underlying factors: environmental, governmental, legal and organizational. The analysis shows that the criticality of the most critical factors grouped by the FA varies between different levels of BIM competency. Finally, the presence of public–private partnerships (PPPs) in realizing BIM projects is a new and emerging critical factor for BIM implementation in Saudi Arabia.

Originality/value

This study differs from prior works on BIM implementation in Saudi Arabia by using FA to explore the underlying relationships among factors of BIM implementation and the factors' groupings. Based on the FA results, a roadmap for implementing the BIM was developed. These findings will help to purposefully and efficiently customize BIM implementation strategies and initiatives to ensure successful BIM implementation in Saudi Arabia.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 January 2022

Augustine Senanu Komla Kukah, De-Graft Owusu-Manu and David Edwards

Even though emotional intelligence (EI) is reported to have many benefits, yet it remains mainly unexplored in the construction industry. This paper aims to present a critical…

Abstract

Purpose

Even though emotional intelligence (EI) is reported to have many benefits, yet it remains mainly unexplored in the construction industry. This paper aims to present a critical review of EI research in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Search of literature was conducted by using Scopus engine. Relevant keywords were used to discover 146 publications. The titles, abstracts, keywords and full texts of the publications were examined to finally select 48 publications that were relevant. Scientometric analysis was undertaken with the aid of VOSViewer. Content analysis systematically reviewed the key themes.

Findings

The five topmost countries conducting research into EI in the construction industry are UK, Australia and the USA. The most influential authors in construction EI research are Goleman, D., Salovey, P. and Mayer, J.D. The significant impact of EI on leadership in the construction industry were that EI boosted transformational leadership style and EI influenced use of management-by-exception active style by construction leaders. Furthermore, EI leads to resilience against stress and EI enhances stress tolerance were the significant roles of EI on stress management.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation is in the number of publications reviewed. In spite of the critical review, the number of publications reviewed may not be exhaustive.

Practical implications

This research enhances knowledge and stimulates a deeper comprehension of EI research and also provides recommendations for further studies based on identified research gaps.

Originality/value

As a pioneering study that combines scientometrics and systematic review for EI research, this study enhances knowledge on EI in the construction industry.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 21 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

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