Determining factors for enhanced skilled worker requirements in IBS construction projects in Malaysia

Abstract

Industrialized Building System (IBS) refers to prefabrication and offsite construction in Malaysia. The construction industry embraces IBS for better construction quality with reduced failure risks and cost effectiveness. This method is highly supported by the Malaysian government through Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia. However, IBS demands workforce that is skilled enough to produce and install construction components either on-site or off-site. The workers are deemed to be knowledgeable in handling materials, methods, and tools for constructing structures like houses, buildings, highways and roads. In fact, workers involved in construction projects are often found with low knowledge, skills, and accustomed to conventional methods instead of IBS. This research aimed at determining factors that may contribute enhancing skilled worker requirements for improving the implementation of IBS construction projects in Malaysia. The questionnaires were used to collect data from contractors involved in IBS construction projects in Malaysia. Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 22.0 software was used to analyse the collected data. The results show that skilled labour with awareness of IBS implementation can handle and implement IBS projects properly. The results of this work revealed that the skilled workers also ensure the projects can be accomplished on time with better quality. The usage of foreign workforce can be minimized by encouraging local labours to participate in IBS as skilled workers, which enhances the market share of construction industry in Malaysian economy. This research provides valuable information regarding the importance of skilled workers and addresses the role of stakeholders in improving knowledge in IBS construction.