Construction Industry Research Articles

Analysis Factors Associated with Work Accidents Among House Construction Workers in Karang Ayu

Globally, work-related injuries are a significant public health and economic issue, with approximately 5-7% of all deaths in industrialized countries caused by work-related injuries. Each year, work accidents cause 350,000 deaths and 270 million non-fatal serious injuries. Due to its high burden of occupational hazards, the construction industry is more at risk than other industries. Compared with workers in different occupations, building construction workers are three to four times more likely to die and twice as likely to be injured than workers in other occupations. This study aims to analyze the factors associated with the incidence of work accidents among house construction workers in Karangayu, Semarang Barat. This study used descriptive qualitative methods, including observation, interviews, and questionnaires. The result of this study is that factors can cause work accidents, such as age, unsafe actions such as not using PPE properly, and worker knowledge, which leads to unsafe actions. Still, in this observation, there are driving factors behind workers' unsafe actions, one of which is the non-compliance of house construction workers in Karangayu, Semarang.

Utilising factor analysis on political risks including strategies of managing firm-specific risk factors for multinational construction projects in Pakistan

Purpose The purpose of this article is to investigate the influence that firm-specific characteristics, such as organisational capabilities, risk management methods and stakeholder relationships, have on political risks (PRs) that are associated with multinational construction projects in Pakistan.Design/methodology/approach The methodology employed in this investigation involved the acquisition of data through the use of questionnaires administered to experts in the construction industry. The research applied a quantitative method, and the sources of the data are from the Pakistani stakeholders. One hundred questionnaires were used for the data collection during field visits. Based on the data, it has been ensured that the valid questionnaires were utilised, and the data were tested for validity and reliability. The analysis tool utilised was SPSS software. For the questionnaire, a total of 15 firm-specific factors were considered in order to design the survey, which specifically targeted the identified features. The factors identified as risks were investigated using quantitative method to determine firm-specific risks.FindingsIt was found that when stakeholders have a better grasp of these dynamics, they are better able to strengthen their resilience and efficacy in managing PRs, which ultimately increases the likelihood that the project will be successful.Research limitations/implications International construction projects (ICPs) in emerging countries are substantially impacted by PRs, which can have a considerable impact on their success and sustainability. The study is localised and not generic as it is limited to Pakistan, and the risk factors considered are firm-specific but related to PRs.Practical implications By identifying key risk factors, these firms can develop targeted risk management strategies, leading to enhanced decision-making and more efficient resource allocation. Effective strategies include diversification, local partnerships and comprehensive risk assessments tailored to the unique challenges faced by international contracting firms in Pakistan.Social implications ICPs in emerging countries like Pakistan face critical problems, which include the presence of PRs. Although the larger political environment plays a significant part, the manner in which businesses navigate and mitigate PRs is also influenced by firm-specific elements.Originality/value The study is novel in terms of the factors looked at, the data, the conceptual framework and the findings of the study. The dynamic political scene, which is characterised by instability, policy changes, corruption and geopolitical conflicts, poses significant dangers to the timeliness of projects, the expenses of such projects and the investments that are made in those projects.

Bridging the gap: a framework for monetizing BIM by integrating industry insights for informed decision-making

PurposeThis study addresses the critical imperative of quantifying building information modeling (bimalliance) benefits by augmenting existing methodologies, with a focus on monetization. Engaging industry practitioners, the research develops a comprehensive framework through an exhaustive literature review and a survey in the Swedish construction industry, incorporating insights from 128 respondents.Design/methodology/approachThe framework, validated by industry experts, systematically assesses tangible BIM benefits against associated costs. It introduces a novel method in construction, addressing the lack of a unified approach. The resulting framework facilitates nuanced feasibility determinations by systematically evaluating BIM benefits against costs.FindingsDespite its acknowledged limitations, the framework effectively captures a comprehensive range of costs and benefits, providing a more accurate and detailed estimation of BIM’s impact on project outcomes.Practical implicationsWith practical implications, the framework enhances BIM understanding and application, contributing to effective project management throughout the construction supply chain lifecycle. Moreover, it aims to improve efficacy within the architecture, engineering, construction and operations industry.Originality/valueThe study empowers organizations and decision-makers with a bespoke tool for evaluating BIM feasibility, contributing to decision-making through a clarified numerical representation.

The Influence of Stakeholder Involvement in the Adoption of Digital Technologies in the UK Construction Industry

This study explored stakeholder involvement practice in digitalisation of the construction industry in the UK, and the influence thereof in the adoption of digital technologies. A qualitative interpretive method was followed using a case study approach to collect data. Thematic analysis of twenty-four semi-structured interviews and sixty survey responses, which were conducted with different digital technologies adoption actors in the construction industry, allowed the identification of six final themes depicting the influence of stakeholder involvement in the adoption of digital technologies. The findings indicate that stakeholder involvement influence is a function of its embeddedness in an organisation digitalisation approach. Stakeholder involvement embeddedness in the approach, or lack thereof, dictates how the stakeholder landscape is planned and managed, and how communication between and with stakeholder groups occurs. This is the foundation of digitalisation value creation among stakeholders. The approach is prone to digitalisation limitations and intrinsic determinants of adoption, both of which can be positively impacted through better stakeholder involvement practices. Stakeholder involvement practices are therefore catalytic to the subsequent behaviour change for digital technologies adoption and the extent to which digital technologies become adopted. This paper contextualises stakeholder involvement in the adoption of digital technologies in the construction industry, highlighting the catalytic influence of stakeholder involvement embeddedness in the complex digitalisation activity system and its interplay with industry-specific practices and other digital technology adoption determinants.

Digital Technologies in Reducing Carbon Emissions in the Construction Industry: China, Heibei

Global warming caused by carbon emissions has become the focal point of the international community, requiring global cooperation and proactive actions to deal with it. With the continuous development of digital technology, its presence in people's lives is getting higher. The development and application of these technologies are driving the arrival of the digital era. So far, there is still a gap in the application of digital technology in the field of carbon emission management in the construction industry and the application framework in different life cycles is still unclear. Therefore, this study intended to explore the application of digital technologies in the construction industry’s carbon emissions. Furthermore, this intended to study the role of digital technology in different life cycles of carbon emissions, aiming to provide reasonable suggestions for reducing carbon emissions in different life cycles of projects，such as planning, Operation & Maintenance, Tear Down. This systematic literature review uses PRISMA, identified 305 documents from ScienceDirect. A growing trend in publications on this topic was observed, indicating an increasing use of digital technologies in the study of carbon emissions. There is an important impact on reducing carbon emissions such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Big Data, Blockchain, Digital Twin, Machine Learning, etc. Then we use mixed research methods to conduct analysis through Focus Group and AHP and obtain the results through weight ranking. The result of this study can be used as a guideline for digital technology in the process of managing carbon emissions. Driving the guideline, this research helps establish a digital technology carbon emissions in construction management system, which is crucial for promoting digital technology in carbon emissions.

Adoption challenges of sensing technologies in construction project management in sub-Saharan African countries

PurposeThe use of technology has increased in the industrial sector over the years. This has propelled the construction industry to follow suit by enhancing construction technology to experience the associated benefits. However, technology adoption in the construction environment has not been smoothly implemented. This article aimed to determine the obstacles to adopting sensing technology in managing construction projects in three major sub-Saharan African nations.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a quantitative approach using structured questionnaires. The questionnaire link was sent to construction professionals in Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa, of which 120 were responded. Data received were analysed using the Statistical Package for Special Science (SPSS) to generate mean scores and the Kruskal–Wallis test and component analysis.FindingsThe results show that construction professionals face herculean tasks when adopting sensing technology in construction project management. Some prominent challenges are initial cost, lack of proper information technology (IT) infrastructure, power supply, lack of well-trained staff, maintenance cost, operating cost, cost of training, technology immaturity and resistance to change. The results also revealed that adoption challenges differ in these three countries, which may be attributable to the economic development level.Practical implicationsDespite the importance of sensing devices in construction industries, the study has revealed that Sub-Saharan African countries face enormous challenges in adopting them in project management and execution. This situation may hinder the industry’s ability to benefit from this technology in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and safety management, which may ultimately affect their cash flows.Originality/valueThe study provides a valuable understanding of the challenges encountered in implementing sensing technology in the construction sector in major countries within sub-Saharan Africa. These findings will enable the countries examined and other African countries to become cognizant of the challenges and implement strategies to overcome them, thereby enhancing performance in the construction industry.

The Use of Locally Available Materials Towards Urban Planning for Sustainable Construction: The Case of Gondar-Ethiopia

The city of Gondar in northern Ethiopia has a rich history that is connected to urban planning and construction. From the era of the Fasiledes that built masonry castles, Italian colonialism that zoned the city on racial boundaries and the post-colonial planning that wanted a more global standard, Gondar has been subjected to different planning and construction methods. This evolution however, has brought about challenges related to the sustainability of the construction industry and the communities within the city. This paper analyses the relationship between urban planning and use of local construction materials to attain sustainable development of the city. The results show that the current urban planning policies as well as the rules and regulations governing the construction industry in Gondar do not support the use of locally available construction materials but instead focus on the use of cementitious materials for construction. Apart from marginalizing the lower-income communities, these policies are also against the tenets of Sustainable Development Goals. As a solution, systemically integration of locally available materials into urban planning policies and strategies as well as developing construction standards and guidelines for their use is recommend.

A Review of Smart Camera Sensor Placement in Construction

Cameras, with their low cost and efficiency, are widely used in construction management and structural health monitoring. However, existing reviews on camera sensor placement (CSP) are outdated due to rapid technological advancements. Furthermore, the construction industry poses unique challenges for CSP implementation due to its scale, complexity, and dynamic nature. Previous reviews have not specifically addressed these industry-specific demands. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing articles from the Web of Science and ASCE databases that focus exclusively on CSP in construction. A rigorous selection process ensures the relevance and quality of the included studies. This comprehensive review navigates through the complexities of camera and environment models, advocating for advanced optimization techniques like genetic algorithms, greedy algorithms, Swarm Intelligence, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo to refine CSP strategies. Simultaneously, Building Information Modeling is employed to consider the progress of construction and visualize optimized layouts, improving the effect of CSP. This paper delves into perspective distortion, the field of view considerations, and the occlusion impacts, proposing a unified framework that bridges practical execution with the theory of optimal CSP. Furthermore, the roadmap for future exploration in the CSP of construction is proposed. This work enriches the study of construction CSP, charting a course for future inquiry, and emphasizes the need for adaptable and technologically congruent CSP approaches amid evolving application landscapes.

SUSTENTABILIDADE E DESEMPENHO NA CONSTRUÇÃO CIVIL: ESTRATÉGIAS E INOVAÇÕES NA PRODUÇÃO DO CONCRETO COM AGREGADO RECICLÁVEL

In the context of sustainability in the construction industry, it is essential that we think of alternatives to reduce the impacts and costs of a construction project. Therefore, this work aims to analyze an alternative for reducing landfill waste used to dispose of materials from construction sites, through their reuse in the production of concrete and derivatives, through the use of recycled material as aggregate, specifically ceramic material from bricks and tiles, analyzing its properties, workability and resistance through laboratory tests. The study is based on bibliographical research of scientific articles, as a way of obtaining the results of the aforementioned tests, thus highlighting whether this alternative is viable as a sustainable and lower-cost way of doing things.

Strategies for Reforming Architectural English Education to Navigate Industry Challenges

The Chinese construction industry has entered a downturn period, the recommendation of the Chinese construction market has been tightened, and the changes in the demand of the international construction market have new requirements for the foreign language ability of the present and future construction talents. In order to cultivate architectural talents with intercultural communication ability and solid professional English communication ability to improve international competitiveness, this paper discusses the teaching reform and innovation path of architectural foreign language, combining situational teaching and project-based learning, focusing on cultivating students 'comprehensive ability of architectural English, intercultural communication ability and professional expression skills. This paper analyzes the impact of the downturn of the construction industry on the teaching content and methods, and hopes to cultivate the architecture talents with international communication ability through teaching reform and exploration.

Extrinsic and intrinsic determinants of thermal conductivity in mycelium composites

The need for the construction industry to reduce both operational and embodied carbon emissions is urgent. Traditional insulation materials, while effective, require energy-intensive processes and non-renewable resources, making them unsustainable. Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) offer a sustainable alternative with low embodied carbon, biodegradability, and non-toxicity, and studies show promising thermal performance. However, accurate measurement of λ is crucial to ensure effectiveness, requiring an understanding of the factors influencing these measurements. This paper reviews the thermal conductivity of MBCs, covering 19 studies reporting λ values from 0.026 W/mK to 0.18 W/mK. Measurement techniques and their uncertainties are reviewed, as well as additional factors affecting λ, including moisture content, density, temperature, substrate, fungal species, and growth conditions. The influence of the fungal-skin layer and the anisotropic nature of MBCs is discussed. Standardised measurement protocols and thorough methodological reporting are emphasised to ensure comparability. By optimising intrinsic parameters like species-substrate combinations and growth conditions, MBC thermal performance can be improved. This paper informs on MBC thermal characterization, promoting broader adoption in the construction industry and advancing sustainable practices. Consequently, this review aims to guide future research and applications, aiding in reducing both operational and embodied carbon emissions.

ADDITIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN CONSTRUCTION: TECHNICAL, ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS

The study is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the introduction of additive technologies into modern construction production, revealing the technical, economic, and managerial aspects of concrete 3D-printing of architectural structures. The work systematically analyzes the evolution of additive manufacturing technologies and identifies the main structural types of 3D-printers (an additive machine for layer-by-layer construction of objects), including portal, robotic, mobile, and hybrid systems. A detailed study of the technological parameters of concrete 3D-printing with concrete mixtures is presented, in particular, optimal printing speed modes, layer parameters, criteria for shaping and quality of building structures. A comparative analysis of the technological capabilities of leading world equipment manufacturers, such as ICON, COBOD International, Apis Cor, and WinSun, is conducted. The economic analysis demonstrates significant advantages of additive technologies: reduction of construction time by 2-6 times, reduction of construction cost by 20-35%, and increase in the load-bearing capacity of structures. The study comprehensively explores the structure of capital and operational expenses associated with technology implementation. Special emphasis is placed on the management aspects of introducing additive technologies, highlighting the critical need for an interdisciplinary approach and knowledge integration across architecture, engineering, management, and computer modeling. The study determines the prospects for the development of concrete 3D-printing technology in the construction industry and outlines the main directions of further scientific research and practical implementation of innovative solutions. This study was developed between the Department of "Integrated Technologies of Mechanical Engineering" named after M. Semko of NTU "KhPI" and "Geopolimer" LTD to implement innovative technologies in the construction industry.

Fire performance and characterization of geopolymer foams using fly ash and coal gangue

The paper introduces foamed geopolymers as effective thermal insulation materials for buildings, with the ability to withstand high temperatures. The production methods for achieving a porous microstructure in geopolymers are discussed, emphasizing the use of foaming agents like aluminium powder. The presented research focuses on developing geopolymer foams from industrial waste materials [fly ash and coal gangue] with enhanced thermal and fire resistance while maintaining robust mechanical properties. The novelty lies in evaluating these foams at a medium-sized panel scale [750 mm x 750 mm x thickness] and assessing their fire resistance through comprehensive tests, differentiating it from existing literature that primarily explores smaller-scale materials. Class F fly ash from Skawina power plant, Poland and waste rock from coal mining KWK Wieczorek, Katowice, Poland were used for preparation of geopolymer foam. The research aims to contribute insights into the fire performance of geopolymer foams under ISO 834-1 fire scenario, paving the way for potential applications as thermal insulation panels in building facilities. Results from fire exposure tests, post-fire mechanical property assessments, SEM observations, EDS analyses, XRD analyses, as well as ageing effects are presented and discussed. While foamed geopolymers demonstrate resilience and fire resistance, variations in their mechanical properties and microstructure due to fire exposure are highlighted. The research underlines the potential of employing geopolymer foams as a sustainable solution for thermal insulation in construction, opening up further exploration and application in the construction industry.

ANALISIS KINERJA MANAJEMEN KONSTRUKSI PADA PROYEK PEMBANGUNAN GEDUNG PELAYANAN KESEHATAN IBU DAN ANAK RSUP PROF. DR. I GOESTINGOERAH GDE NGOERAH

Construction management is a field of study that focuses on the application of various managerial and innovative practices in the construction industry. It covers the principles of Planning, Organizing, Driving, and Controlling (POAC) to effectively manage construction projects and achieve desired results. The nature of construction work often presents potential challenges and obstacles that can impact the overall success of the project. Because of this, it is very necessary to implement construction project control measures, such as quality control, cost control, and time control, throughout the planning, organizing, driving, and process control stages. This research focuses on the Prof. Maternal and Child Health Services Building Construction Project. Dr. I Goesti Ngoerah Gde Ngoerah Hospital, highlighted the problem of adding a new floor which was not initially included in the detailed engineering design (DED). The main objective is to examine various factors that influence construction management performance in this project. This research uses a quantitative approach, utilizing Microsoft Excel software for analysis. Findings revealed that the Planning factor, with a mean value = 3.97, was the most significant factor influencing construction management performance in this particular project.

Quantifying the Self-Healing Efficiency of Bioconcrete Using Bacillus subtilis Immobilized in Polymer-Coated Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregates

Concrete is prone to cracking over time, leading to the deterioration of concrete structures. Using the biomineralization capabilities of bacteria, cracks in concrete can be remediated in favorable conditions. In this study, Bacillus subtilis spores were immobilized in three different healing agents, namely lightweight expanded clay aggregates (LECAs), polyvinyl acetate (PVA) fibers, and an air-entraining admixture (AEA). Bacillus subtilis spores, with a turbidity equivalent to a 4 McFarland standard, were used in three different dosages, namely 0.01, 0.1, and 1% (by weight) of cement. Based on the dosage, three groups were developed and each group consisted of a total of nine mixes, which were differentiated based on the method of delivery of the bacterial spores. The specimens were pre-cracked after 7 days, using an embedded steel rod, after being post-tensioned in a universal testing machine. The self-healing efficiency of the concrete was evaluated using ultrasonic pulse velocity testing and surface crack analysis, using ImageJ software, and the self-healing precipitate was analyzed using microstructural tests, namely scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. The results verified that the self-healing efficiency of the concrete improved with the increase in the bacterial dosage and with an increase in the curing time. LECAs proved to be a promising bacterial carrier, by accommodating the spores and nutrient media over a period of 196 days. PVA fibers helped in bridging the cracks and provided nucleation sites for the bacteria, which enhanced the calcite precipitation. Similarly, the AEA also improved crack healing by encapsulating the spores and sealing cracks up to 0.25 mm, when used in conjunction with LECAs. Furthermore, microstructural tests verified the formation of calcite as a healing product within the cracks in the bioconcrete. The results of this study offer valuable insights for the construction industry, highlighting the ability of bacteria to reduce the deterioration of concrete structures and promoting a sustainable approach that minimizes the need for manual repairs, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

Detection and tracking of safety helmet wearing based on deep learning

Abstract Failure to wear a helmet correctly is a significant cause of injury or death in the construction industry and industrial production. Traditional supervision methods predominantly rely on manual oversight, incurring substantial costs and demonstrating inefficiencies. To address this pressing issue, the present work introduces an advanced intelligent detection technology based on deep learning algorithms, which leverages the YOLOv5 algorithm to train a dataset, enabling real-time assessment of correct helmet usage among personnel while promptly issuing warnings when deviations are detected. Simultaneously, to mitigate challenges related to object leakage and false detections in complex backgrounds, the model’s performance is further enhanced by optimizing Generalized Intersection over Union, Distance Intersection over Union, and Complete Intersection over Union loss functions and improving the Mosaic-9 data enhancement algorithm. Empirical results validate the system’s efficacy, with the optimized YOLOv5 algorithm achieving an impressive precision rate of 93.16% and a robust recall rate of 88.96%. These findings underscore the system’s ability to accurately identify instances of workers’ improper helmet usage. This enhanced YOLOv5-based intelligent detection technology provides a more efficient and accurate method for monitoring helmet compliance within the construction industry and industrial production, effectively addressing the limitations of traditional manual supervision and ensuring precision in complex operational contexts.

Application of deformable aluminum alloys in the construction industry: current trends and future perspectives

Application of deformable aluminum alloys in the construction industry: current trends and future perspectives

Experimental Investigations for Assessment of Carbon Emissions and Tool Temperature in Dry Turning Operation Using Al1070 Alloy

Dry turning operations are required to be performed during production to achieve sustainable development goals as per environmental protection guidelines. In such machining operations, there is no need of supply of mineral based cutting fluids (MBCF) which creates problems of environment contamination and health risks to operators such as lung cancer, eye irritation and skin diseases etc. Al1070 alloys are currently used in construction industry, transport, communication cables and refrigerator cabinets as light weight structural material. The main objectives of the present study are to explore the dry turning operation (without use of MBCF) using Al1070 alloy. The X-ray fluorescence elemental analysis was performed to check composition of MBCF. Several harmful elements such as phosphorus, chlorine, and zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate were present which create high health risk to operators in turning operation with MBCF. The work piece, the cutting tool, the electricity consumption, and the recycling of the chips during the turning process contributed to the total carbon emissions. Significant positive impacts on environment have been achieved in dry turning operation as compared to tuning with MBCF. 19.85% reduction in carbon emissions and 37.12% reduction in tool temperature were achieved in dry turning operation with minimal tool wear and surface defects.

Artisan development in the AEC industry: strategies for attracting, transitioning and retaining workers

This paper investigates the prospects for artisan development in South Africa's Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Despite the vital economic contributions of this industry, attracting new entrants, aiding their transition into the workforce, and retaining skilled artisans remain significant challenges. The research focuses on strategies for addressing these issues, specifically within the context of South Africa's Institute for National Development of Learnerships, Employment Skills, and Labour Assessments (INDLELA). A critical literature review and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders revealed insights into existing policy implementation, the quality and relevance of training programs, and the recognition of artisans' prior learning. The research findings underscore the urgent need for robust and inclusive skills development strategies, recognizing prior learning as a key intervention and improved advocacy for artisan professions. Establishing clear targets, enhancing digitization processes, and strengthening institutional roles are vital steps towards addressing artisans' skill shortages in South Africa's AEC industry.

Industrial Carbonate Production with Ornamental Stone Quarry Waste: From the Waste Pile to Final Product

Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the utilization of ornamental stone quarry waste and its transformation into industrial carbonate production, aiming to promote circular economy practices in mining. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in concepts of sustainable waste management and circular economy in the mining sector, emphasizing theories related to waste transformation into valuable industrial products. Method: The methodology included technical visits to a quarry and a processing plant, where extraction, storage, and processing practices of waste were observed and documented. Data collection involved interviews with production teams and 3D modeling of mining areas. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that quarry waste from ornamental rock production can be used to produce carbonates of various particle sizes, suitable for applications in the construction, thermoplastics, and other industries. The analysis highlighted the feasibility of converting mining waste into high-value materials, contributing to the sustainability of the sector. Research Implications: This research provides practical insights into how mining waste can be efficiently managed and repurposed, promoting a more sustainable approach to waste management. Originality/Value: The study contributes by demonstrating and documenting the utilization of waste materials, showcasing their applications across diverse sectors, and reinforcing the economic and environmental benefits of circular economy practices in mining.