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Article
Publication date: 5 December 2022

S. Sathvik, L. Krishnaraj and Bankole Osita Awuzie

Sleep quality has been associated with health and safety issues influencing construction labour productivity in developing countries. Despite its significantly adverse…

Abstract

Purpose

Sleep quality has been associated with health and safety issues influencing construction labour productivity in developing countries. Despite its significantly adverse contribution to these facets if left unattended to, limited studies have sought to establish its prevalence and causal factors in labour-intensive contexts. This study aims to bridge the gap between the prevalence and casual factors of poor sleep quality among construction workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a case study research design, data were collected from a randomly selected sample of construction workers (n = 475) recruited from four construction-based corporations in Southern India. Self-administered questionnaires comprising a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale was used to measure sleep quality among respondents alongside demographic characteristics, lifestyle preferences and work-habits data. Data were analysed using multivariate logistic regression analysis and descriptive statistical techniques.

Findings

Slightly more than a third of the construction workers (n = 33.9%) surveyed experienced poor sleep quality based on a PSQI method score of = 5. Also, the nexus between demographic characteristics, lifestyle preferences and work habits on the incidence of poor sleep quality among construction workers was confirmed.

Practical implications

The study contributes to the contemporary discourse on improving sleep health of construction workers to enhance their well-being thereby enabling their contribution towards achieving improved construction labour productivity.

Originality/value

This study makes an original contribution to the extent that it seeks to not only determine the prevalence of sleep quality within the construction industry and associated causal factors but to explore its implications on construction labour productivity.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 13 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2020

Zahra Abdulhadi Shukra and Ying Zhou

Despite the construction industry's significant impact on high energy use and a growing carbon footprint, technologies like Green BIM help to optimize natural resources, reduce…

1075

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the construction industry's significant impact on high energy use and a growing carbon footprint, technologies like Green BIM help to optimize natural resources, reduce pollution, use sustainable space and work on human comfort and health. But the trend in a holistic approach is minimal. Thus, the paper aimed to systematically investigate Green BIM research and implementation trends using a mixed-method and also show the prospects of holistic Green BIM implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

First, we conducted a Scientometrics analysis on the topic using the Scopus database for the time interval of (2013–present). Secondly, the Qualitative Content Review method asserted the Scientometrics analysis result. Lastly, exploratory research was done on secondary data to compare the AEC industry trend for a comprehensive view.

Findings

The merged findings confirmed the partial implementation of Green BIM and of which 43% of research focused only on energy analysis. Despite the potential of BIM and the interrelationship among green building parameters, the result showed other aspects of green building and sustainable design parameters as green material selection, sustainable site, waste management and water-use efficiency not comprised.

Originality/value

The authors propose a new conceptual framework for integrating green building parameters, BIM tools and green building assessment tools in a life cycle of a project that adds into the sustainability of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction sector. The study would help to provoke researchers, software developers and practitioners for further innovative effort in holistic Green BIM implementation.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 28 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 June 2022

Hicri Yavuz and Hüseyin Bayrakceken

The purpose of this paper, brake friction material samples with six different contents were produced using three different fiber types consisting of variable proportions of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, brake friction material samples with six different contents were produced using three different fiber types consisting of variable proportions of huntite mineral and basalt, glass and steel fibers. The friction properties and formation of the transfer film in these friction materials were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Friction materials were produced using a hot molding method from materials containing 10%–15% huntite in varying proportions, consisting of basalt, glass and steel fibers. The densities and hardness values of the samples were measured. Friction tests were performed using a brake pad friction material tester to determine tribological properties. After the friction tests, microscopic examination of the sample surfaces was performed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and three-dimensional (3D) surface profilometer devices.

Findings

Huntite mineral content and fiber type affected the friction coefficient. With an increase in the amount of huntite, the friction coefficient increased in the friction material samples formed with glass and steel fibers. The fiber type and amount of huntite also affected the transfer film formation. The surface roughness values of all the friction materials decreased with an increase in the amount of huntite. The surface roughness values of the samples with glass fibers were higher than those of other samples.

Originality/value

The importance of using huntite minerals and different fiber types in automotive brake friction materials is emphasized. This will help industrial companies and academics study the tribological properties of friction materials.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 74 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 November 2022

W.A. Rasanjali, A.P.K.D. Mendis, B.A.K.S. Perera and Vijitha Disaratna

In a conventional sense, information technology has frequently been considered a source of Lean waste management. However, as the corporate world evolves, new models that provide…

Abstract

Purpose

In a conventional sense, information technology has frequently been considered a source of Lean waste management. However, as the corporate world evolves, new models that provide a competitive edge by merging technical breakthroughs with the Lean paradigm must be developed. Enterprise resource planning (ERP), which is such technological advancement, is found to be highly influential for Lean implementation. However, there is a dearth of literature on the adaptability of ERP to minimise Lean waste in the construction industry. This paper, therefore, aims to investigate the possibility of applying ERP to minimise Lean waste in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a qualitative approach, consisting of fifteen (15) expert interviews and code-based content analysis was used to analyse the empirical data.

Findings

The findings revealed the challenges faced when applying ERP with the Lean concept and the strategies that would help overcome the challenges. Most of the challenges could be overcome through training and awareness programmes and proper team management. The study also found that ERP could be applied with Lean to eliminate waste generation in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the theory by providing an evaluation of the possibility of adopting ERP to eliminate Lean waste in the construction industry. The study will contribute to new knowledge related to strategies for proper use of ERP for Lean waste minimisation, which will be useful for future researchers in the area.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 13 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2023

Hicri Yavuz

This study aims to determine the braking performance of limestone as a filler in brake friction materials.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to determine the braking performance of limestone as a filler in brake friction materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples containing limestone material (30-35-40%), which can be an alternative to brake friction material filler, were produced. The samples were weighed on precision scales, mixed homogeneously and produced using the hot molding method. The physical and tribological properties of the produced samples were determined, and their microscopic analyzes were made with scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

As the amount of limestone increased, the density of the samples decreased. The friction coefficient and wear rates were close to each other and within the optimum limits for all samples. Limestone materials can be used instead of barite materials studied in the literature on brake linings. Microcracks were observed only in samples containing 30% and 35% limestone in microscopic images.

Originality/value

In this study, the wear rate, coefficient of friction and microstructures on the friction surfaces of brake friction materials containing limestone were investigated. The usability of limestone as a filler in brake friction materials provides valuable information to researchers and industrial organizations in the brake friction material field.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 75 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 July 2023

Maszura Abdul Ghafar and Rahinah Ibrahim

This paper discussed quantifying architect, engineer and contractor (AEC) professionals' cross-work culture productivity by comparing between Malaysian and United Kingdom (UK…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper discussed quantifying architect, engineer and contractor (AEC) professionals' cross-work culture productivity by comparing between Malaysian and United Kingdom (UK) projects during industrialized building project delivery. This study addressed the second part of a mixed method research design study.

Design/methodology/approach

This study hypothesized that with understanding of cultural work knowledge between professionals during design phase coupled with competent technological support, productivity can be improved. It utilized Cognitive Organizational Theory (COT) protocols to test conceptual models in SimVision®. Organizational structure, project intensity, and statistical validations parameters were performed to obtain the reliability and generalization of the result.

Findings

This study found that with Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology intervention, the handling of exception, coordination and decision-making time could be improved, resulting in better project performances. The result also indicated that in choosing organizational fit, national culture factor needed to be considered; otherwise, organizational change would be unacceptable. By changing the operational process from intensive to reciprocal task intensity with BIM technology intervention, the effect on productivity would be similar to changing hierarchical organizational structure to flatter organizational structure.

Research limitations/implications

Project discrepancies issues are limitedly discussed due to companies' confidentiality. The paper only focuses on understanding the effects of human factors during the integrated project delivery phase.

Practical implications

The findings could support developing countries' professionals to collaborate effectively with developed countries' professionals.

Originality/value

The development of the project's cultural knowledge experimentations will provide guidance to teams involved in international projects from developed and developing countries in pursuing joint ventures in project deliveries in either country successfully.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 October 2010

Kaliappa Krishnaraj, Palanisamy Thanikaivelan, Kavati Phebeaardn and Bangaru Chandrasekaran

Drape is a property that affects the aesthetic appeal and functionality of materials used for clothing manufacture. When various cut components of apparel are assembled together…

490

Abstract

Purpose

Drape is a property that affects the aesthetic appeal and functionality of materials used for clothing manufacture. When various cut components of apparel are assembled together, the drape behavior of the final garment could be affected compared to the base fabric. Goat suede leathers are widely used for making apparels. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the effect of sewing on the drape characteristics of goat suede leather.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study commercially available goat suede leathers of Indian origin from five different firms were used. The bending length, drape coefficient and number of nodes were measured for goat suede leathers with different stitch and seam values and compared with the same measurements taken in plain leather. For bending length measurement, plain, single stitched and seamed samples were prepared. For drape coefficient measurement, plain, radially stitched and seamed namely half circle and quarter circle samples were prepared.

Findings

The introduction of seam (0.5 and 1 cm allowance) on the goat suede leathers increases the bending length significantly thereby reducing the drape ability but the influence of single stitch on the bending length is negligible. On contrary, there is a significant increase in drape coefficient values for simple radial stitched as well as for seamed samples. The number of nodes generated reduced marginally upon the introduction of stitch or seam.

Originality/value

The paper provides the information on the effect of sewing on the drape characteristics of goat suede apparel leathers. This is the first of its kind study on leather as clothing material.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 22 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 August 2023

Asmae El Jaouhari, Jabir Arif, Ashutosh Samadhiya, Anil Kumar, Vranda Jain and Rohit Agrawal

The purpose of this paper is to investigate, from a thorough review of the literature, the role of metaverse-based quality 4.0 (MV-based Q4.0) in achieving manufacturing…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate, from a thorough review of the literature, the role of metaverse-based quality 4.0 (MV-based Q4.0) in achieving manufacturing resilience (MFGRES). Based on a categorization of MV-based Q4.0 enabler technologies and MFGRES antecedents, the paper provides a conceptual framework depicting the relationship between both areas while exploring existing knowledge in current literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is structured as a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR) at the intersection of MV-based Q4.0 and MFGRES fields. From the Scopus database up to 2023, a final sample of 182 papers is selected based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria that shape the knowledge base of the research.

Findings

In light of the classification of reviewed papers, the findings show that artificial intelligence is especially well-suited to enhancing MFGRES. Transparency and flexibility are the resilience enablers that gain most from the implementation of MV-based Q4.0. Through analysis and synthesis of the literature, the study reveals the lack of an integrated approach combining both MV-based Q4.0 and MFGRES. This is particularly clear during disruptions.

Practical implications

This study has a significant impact on managers and businesses. It also advances knowledge of the importance of MV-based Q4.0 in achieving MFGRES and gaining its full rewards.

Originality/value

This paper makes significant recommendations for academics, particularly those who are interested in the metaverse concept within MFGRES. The study also helps managers by illuminating a key area to concentrate on for the improvement of MFGRES within their organizations. In light of this, future research directions are suggested.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 11 March 2021

Saadia Danish and Danish Muneef Qureshi

Growing e-commerce and technology-led initiatives are the catalysts for digitization in the financial industry. Green (2020) states that there has been an increase in global…

Abstract

Growing e-commerce and technology-led initiatives are the catalysts for digitization in the financial industry. Green (2020) states that there has been an increase in global funding in this sector from $111 billion in 2018 up to $135 billion in 2020. This surge in digital payments requires a payment technology company that understands the market needs of developing countries, has an agile approach and strong organizational practices. TPS is an agile company that has aligned itself to capture the untapped markets in developing countries through its best practices, perseverance, and continuous innovation by identifying and filling market gaps. The company is highly customer-centric and people-oriented. This case study explores the key practices and drivers of success for this company by outlining the main features of organizational strategy, competitive advantage, external and internal marketing practices. Looking ahead, the case asks whether agile practices, organic mindset, highly flexible customer orientation, and talent building practices influence the productivity and proficiency of the company or not.

Details

Corporate Success Stories in the UAE: The Key Drivers Behind Their Growth
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80043-579-7

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 6 February 2013

Namita N. Manohar

Purpose – Informed by an intersectional perspective, this chapter examines how middle-class, immigrant Tamil (an Indian regional group) Brahmin (upper-caste) profess/ional women…

Abstract

Purpose – Informed by an intersectional perspective, this chapter examines how middle-class, immigrant Tamil (an Indian regional group) Brahmin (upper-caste) profess/ional women organize motherhood in the U.S., by identifying the arrangements of mothering they develop, and the conditions under which these emerge.Methodology/approach – Data is based on a year-long ethnography among Tamils in Atlanta, and multi-part, feminist life-history interviews with 33 first-generation, Tamil professional women, analyzed within a constructivist grounded theory method.Findings – Tamil immigrant motherhood emerges from the interplay of Tamil women's social location as an immigrant community of color in the U.S. and their agency. Paradoxically racialized as model minorities who are also culturally incommensurable with American society, Tamil women rework motherhood around breadwinning and cultural nurturing to mother for class and ethnicity respectively. They expand the hegemonic model of Tamil Brahmin motherhood beyond domesticity positioning their professional work as complementary to mothering, while simultaneously reinforcing hegemonic elements of mothers as keepers of culture, responsible for ethnic socialization of children. Mothering then enables them to engender integration into American society by positioning families as upwardly mobile, model minorities who are ethnic. This, however, exacts a personal toll: their limited professional mobility and reduced personal leisure time.Originality/value – By uncovering Tamil immigrant motherhood as structural and agentic, a site of power contestation between spouses and among Tamil women, and its salience in adaptation to America, this chapter advances scholarship on South Asians that under-theorizes mothering and that on immigrant parenting in which South Asians are invisible.

Details

Notions of Family: Intersectional Perspectives
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78190-535-7

Keywords

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