Browsing by Author "Waidyasekara, KGAS"

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item: Conference-Full-text
3R.6R extended water hierarchy model for sustainable use of water during construction
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2016-07) Waidyasekara, KGAS; De Silva, L; Rameezdeen, R; Sandanayake, YG; Karunasena, GI; Ramachandra, T
There is a broad consensus in literature that effective utilisation of natural resources in any industry greatly influences sustainability of built environment. Hence, better management strategies of water began to emerge in all sectors; thus, different dimensions are in need to assess different industries. With this scenario, water sustainability on construction sites is one significant area, which demands the attention of construction stakeholders. Today many construction projects survive on potable water, and many strategies are available that can reduce the amount of water consumed by the construction industry. Water hierarchy is one strategy proposed for construction sites to reduce potable water consumption and encourage alternative water sources within the site. Literature and preliminary interviews further support identification of new 3R principles: Regulations, Responsibility, and Rewards that can influence on better water management on construction sites. Therefore, purpose of this paper is to examine the applicability and implementation of 3R principles in conjunction with six stages (6R) of water hierarchy to improve efficient water use on construction projects in Sri Lanka. The study adopted triangulation convergence mixed method approach, and data collection involved case studies and a structured survey. Qualitative data is presented as narratives and quotations while quantitative data is presented as descriptive statistics. The results revealed that all factors were considered as ‘applicable’ and the possibility of implementing them on construction sites. Reuse and recycle were identified as the least applicable, and are rarely practised on sites, if it is not initially identified as a mandatory process. Experience and commitment of individual staff and costs are identified as important drivers on implication of each 9R principle. New 3R principles were recognised as supportive policies to implement all six existing stages of water hierarchy. Finally, the paper discusses the extended water hierarchy model developed for construction industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
3R.6R EXTENDEDWATER HIERARCHYMODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE USE OFWATER DURING CONSTRUCTION
(2016-08-22) Waidyasekara, KGAS; De Silva, L
There is a broad consensus in literature that effective utilisation of natural resources in any industry greatly influences sustainability of built environment. Hence, better management strategies of water began to emerge in all sectors; thus, different dimensions are in need to assess different industries. With this scenario, water sustainability on construction sites is one significant area, which demands the attention of construction stakeholders. Today many construction projects survive on potable water, and many strategies are available that can reduce the amount of water consumed by the construction industry. Water hierarchy is one strategy proposed for construction sites to reduce potable water consumption and encourage alternative water sources within the site. Literature and preliminary interviews further support identification of new 3R principles: Regulations, Responsibility, and Rewards that can influence on better water management on construction sites. Therefore, purpose of this paper is to examine the applicability and implementation of 3R principles in conjunction with six stages (6R) of water hierarchy to improve efficient water use on construction projects in Sri Lanka. The study adopted triangulation convergence mixed method approach, and data collection involved case studies and a structured survey. Qualitative data is presented as narratives and quotations while quantitative data is presented as descriptive statistics. The results revealed that all factors were considered as ‘applicable’ and the possibility of implementing them on construction sites. Reuse and recycle were identified as the least applicable, and are rarely practised on sites, if it is not initially identified as a mandatory process. Experience and commitment of individual staff and costs are identified as important drivers on implication of each 9R principle. New 3R principles were recognised as supportive policies to implement all six existing stages of water hierarchy. Finally, the paper discusses the extended water hierarchy model developed for construction industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management in Sri Lankan construction projects
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Wijesinghe, EDAT; Jayawickrama, TS; Tennakoon, GA; Wijewickrama, MKCS; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The significant resource consumption and waste generation in the construction sector highlights the imperative for sustainable management of resources and waste, particularly in Sri Lanka. Over time, various techniques have emerged as potential solutions to address this challenge, with the 5S technique standing out as a widely discussed approach. This technique is focused on producing high-quality outputs with minimal wastage and high productivity, making it well-suited for sustainable resource and waste management. However, despite its potential, there is limited research exploring its application in this context within the construction domain, specifically in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the applicability of 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management in Sri Lankan construction projects. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was conducted on the 5S principles and the concept of sustainable resource and waste management, which led to the development of a conceptual framework for the application of 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management. Following this, a pilot study using interviews was conducted to investigate the specific activities that could be implemented under the individual 5S principles for sustainable resource and waste management. Integrating these activities within construction projects could help mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with resource consumption and waste generation in the industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Accessibility of emergency evacuation for differentlyabled people in public hospital buildings in Sri Lanka: the national policy enhancements
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Manoj, S; Mallawaarachchi, H; Soorige, SDA; Jayasena, N; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
It is very difficult task in nature and a prevailing issue in the world today to provide a reasonable access for differently abled people within any building. Specially, giving fair and impartial accessibility has become very complex and an ongoing global issue. However, various policies and guidelines have been developed in countries enabling buildings to be used by the differently abled people by building them in terms of ease of access for emergency evacuation. Among the other buildings, healthcare facility has obtained the first concern when considering its’ heavy use by differently abled people. Thus, this research was conducted with the purpose of studying on the accessibility procedures of emergency evacuation for the differently abled people in public buildings with special emphasis to public hospitals since the current evacuation means in healthcare sector are not adequately developed based on the needs of differently abled people. The research was conducted using case study method under qualitative phenomenon. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among building professionals who had more than five years of experience in the field of accessibility to collect the data. Hence, three public hospital buildings in Sri Lanka were selected. Accessibility procedures of emergency evacuation and issues in existing practice were investigated related to safety and security, access to built environment and access to communication in line with the National Policy on Disability for Sri Lanka. Case study data revealed that not having predetermined procedure for evacuating differently abled people and less awareness on existing safety and security procedures thus need special attention. Accordingly, a framework was developed to propose the probable enhancements for the national policy. The enhanced policy can be used as a national strategy to assure the ease of accessibility of emergency evacuation for differently abled people in public hospital buildings in Sri Lanka.
item: Conference-Full-text
Adaptability of blockchain-based E-Procurement system in Sri Lankan construction projects.
(2022-06-24) Nitharsan, N; Francis, M; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
E-procurement and Blockchain are relatively new technologies that have the potential to provide a variety of benefits due to their unique features such as transparency, decentralized approach, immutability, and consensus. The Sri Lankan construction industry is corrupted and that drives up construction costs, which are then passed on to the general public. Procurement plays a major role in construction projects as it is the basis of any transaction. E-Procurement is one of the recent technologies used by modern businesses to save time, money, and effort. Therefore, the current research aims to investigate the adaptability of e-procurement using Blockchain technology in the Sri Lankan construction industry. A mixed research approach was adopted including a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interview. A total of 55 questionnaires were distributed among experienced professionals, and 37 responses were received. The data collected from the questionnaire survey were analysed using Relative Important Index (RII) and Gap analysis. For the interview, total of 5 professionals who have experience in procurement and tender management were drawn through the snowball sampling technique to identify the strategies for the adoption of Blockchain based E-procurement. The survey found that there is a gap between the desirability and readiness for Blockchain adoption. In addition, the eight important drivers and barriers to the adoption have been identified. As a result, from an organizational and governmental perspective, measures must be designed and implemented to overcome barriers and enhance readiness levels, so closing the gap between desirability and readiness. Finally, based on the findings, strategies for improving the readiness of Blockchain-based EProcurement practices in the Sri Lankan construction industry were identified
item: Conference-Full-text
Adaptability of shared workspace concept in office buildings in Sri Lanka
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Perera, WY; Perera, BAKS; Jayawickrama, TS; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
A well-organised, well-designed workspace in an organization will help it to fully achieve its goals. Although visiting staff are also considered as staff of an organisation, they often face difficulties in finding space within the organization for working as they are not generally assigned specific workspace to work from. In Sri Lanka, many office buildings have unutilised floor space. These unutilised spaces are quite costly to maintain. Moreover, an unutilized space will have an adverse impact on the sustainability of the organisation. This study addresses these issues by investigating the adaptability of shared workspace concept in office buildings in Sri Lanka. To achieve this aim, a literature review, 14 expert interviews and two case studies were conducted. Content analysis was used to analyse the findings. The study identifies the type of office spaces that can be used as shared workspaces. It is found that not all offices with unutilised space will be able to decide to adopt the shared workspace concept as that decision has to be based on the type and operating hours of the office, core business of the organisation, organisational culture and the support structure and the accessibility of the building in which the office is housed.
item: Conference-Full-text
Adaptation of green building concept to existing government office buildings in Sri Lanka
(2024) Jayoda, THS; Natasha, KSDM; Rathnayake, U; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
At present, the cost spent on constructing, operating, maintaining, and even demolishing buildings has reached an all-time high. When considering a building in operation, 40% to 50% of its costs are the result of energy usage within. Moreover, inefficiently and conventionally constructed buildings contribute to resource wastage in numerous ways, impacting both the environment and society adversely. The Green Building (GB) concept, which is a sustainable development initiative can be considered as a solution as it helps minimise environmental impact and effectively employs resources throughout a building’s lifecycle. It guarantees numerous benefits socially, economically, and environmentally. In Sri Lanka many buildings that operate in the private sector have taken the initiative in implementing the GB concept, however, buildings operating in the government or public sector are lagging. This delay can be attributed to several factors, including insufficient funding, limited awareness, and reliance on outdated technology. Through a comprehensive literature review and empirical data from expert interviews and case studies, this research identifies key challenges hindering GB adoption in government sector office buildings in Sri Lanka. Recommendations emphasise the development of a robust framework tailored to government buildings, focusing on regulatory enhancements, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building initiatives. Such strategies aim to overcome barriers and enhance adoption, fostering sustainability and resilience within the public sector.
item: Conference-Full-text
Adapting the standard forms of contract to minimize the contractual effects of COVID-19 on construction projects.
(2022-06-24) Perera, C; Palliyaguru, R; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
The construction industry is a major economic driver in Sri Lanka. However, the construction industry was significantly affected by the responses made by the Sri Lankan government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The effects of those government responses on construction projects are diverse as time, cost, and qualityrelated impacts. These effects resulted in numerous contractual effects that were mostly to be dealt with reference to the provisions made in the standard forms of contracts such as ICTAD/SBD/02 and FIDIC 1999 in Sri Lanka. Since no similar pandemic has affected Sri Lanka at this magnitude before, neither ICTAD/SBD/02 nor FIDIC 1999 have been drafted giving due consideration to such exceptional circumstances. Furthermore, no studies that researched these kinds of aspects can be found in the existing literature. Hence, this research aims to explore the effects of the responses made by the Sri Lankan government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic on the construction industry and the possible adaptations of standard forms of contracts to address the contractual implications of those effects to mitigate the effects on the contractual parties in both building and civil engineering projects. A desk review was carried out to identify the existing provisions of ICTAD/SBD/02 and FIDIC 1999 to overcome the effects of pandemic situations, and three case studies, including two building projects and one civil engineering project, were used for the empirical data collection. Representing contractors, consultants, and employers, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted within the three case studies. The research findings reveal that a collaborative approach with cost and time-sharing is the best approach to address the effects of a pandemic situation. Furthermore, defining terminologies, developing transparency in contractual relationships, and establishing an equal assessment basis can all aid in the contractual development of the ICTAD/SBD/02. As a result, the study suggests improving documentation practices, developing guidelines for amicable settlement, and eliminating the adversarial effects of ICTAD/SBD/02 through an equal assessment process. Thus, this research contributes to the further development of ICTAD/SBD/02 while also improving Sri Lankan building and civil engineering projects by reducing contractual issues in future pandemics
item: Conference-Full-text
Addressing risks in green residential building construction projects: the case of Singapore
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Hwang, BG; Shan, M; Phua, H; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
Over the past decade, an increasing number of green residential buildings have been developed worldwide owing to active promotion from the authorities and the increasing interest from customers. However, in the same way as traditional residential buildings, the construction of green residential buildings has been facing various risks. The aims of this study are to identify and assess the diverse risks in green residential building construction projects, compare their risk criticalities with those in traditional counterparts, and propose helpful risk mitigation measures. To achieve these goals, a comprehensive literature review was conducted first, and then a questionnaire was administered to 30 construction companies in Singapore. The analysis results showed that “complex procedures to obtain approvals”, “overlooked high initial cost”, “unclear requirements of owners”, “employment constraint”, and “lack of availability of green materials and equipment” were the top five critical risks in green residential building construction projects. It also reported that green residential building projects were facing risks at a more critical level than those traditional residential building projects. Furthermore, this study proposed fourteen risk mitigation measures that can effectively tackle the risks in green residential building construction projects. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by identifying and evaluating the critical risks and the responding mitigation measures in green residential building construction projects. The findings from this study can also provide practitioners with an in-depth understanding of risk management in green residential building construction projects, and thereby benefiting the industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Addressing the skilled professional shortage in Indian sustainable construction: a focus on awareness, education, training, and policy interventions
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Naganarasimhulu, T; Tawalare, A; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The sustainable construction industry is experiencing rapid growth, propelled by the urgent global need to reduce environmental impact and enhance resilience in the built environment. Nevertheless, this expansion is met with a significant deficit of skilled professionals equipped with the necessary knowledge and expertise in sustainable construction practices. This research explores the multifaceted approach required to rectify this shortage, with a primary focus on enhancing awareness and education, addressing training needs, and implementing effective policy interventions. This study begins with the examination of existing literature related to sustainable construction education, training, and current strategies to identify gaps and challenges. The research methodology entails a literature review to identify factors causing skilled professional shortages in construction. Semi-structured interviews with construction professionals follow this to confirm and explore underlying reasons. Transcripts are then analysed using content analysis to extract main themes and sub-themes. Gaining insight into the root causes of skilled shortages and the challenges within sustainable construction guides the development of targeted strategies aimed at attracting more professionals to the field. Proposed strategies for addressing shortages are validated with construction professionals, and conclusions are drawn. This approach not only helps alleviate professional shortages but also fosters sustainable growth within the sector. The findings of the study offer valuable insights for stakeholders, educational institutions, and policymakers, enabling them to enhance their approaches to sustainability in the construction industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Addressing traditional HRM challenges in the construction industry: insights from modern HRM literature
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Jayasinghe, JDSS; Ilangakoon, IWMAD; Hadiwattege, C; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The construction industry plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of any country. However, traditional Human Resource Management (HRM) practices within this sector face numerous challenges, including high labour turnover, skill shortages, and safety concerns, which adversely affect productivity and employee well-being. This study provides an extensive review of modern HRM literature designed to address these challenges towards enhancing organisational performance of the construction industry. The research methodology involved a comprehensive literature review spanning publications from 1990 to 2024, utilising search engines such as Scopus, Google Scholar, Emerald Insight, and Science Direct. The findings reveal that traditional HRM practices, characterised by their administrative focus and reactive approach, have led to significant issues in the construction sector. In contrast, modern HRM practices, which emphasise strategic alignment, employee engagement, continuous learning, and leveraging technology, offer viable solutions. Specifically, practices such as Strategic HRM (SHRM), agile HRM, and data-driven HRM are particularly effective in managing the industry's unique challenges, including workforce mobility, economic fluctuations, and the integration of new technologies. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by highlighting the potential of modern HRM practices to transform HRM in the construction industry. Future research should focus on empirically validating the impact of these practices on project performance and exploring innovative HRM strategies tailored to the sector's specific needs.
item: SRC-Report
Adoptability of zero waste Lankan construction industry
(2016) Waidyasekara, KGAS; Mallawaarachchi, BH; Liyanage, KIAKT; The construction industry, being the largest industry, it generates massive quantities of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste. In order to eliminate C&D waste, the Zero waste concept emerged as a potential solution. Although, Construction Waste Management (COWAM) project is available for manage C&D waste in Sri Lanka, there is a lack of studies to manage C&D waste management. Thus, this study focuses on elimination of C&D waste from construction industry by applying zero waste concept. To achieve the ultimate aim of the study, four (04) objectives were developed. First objective is to review the concepts of C&D waste, Zero waste and current C&D waste management in the construction industry while the second objective is to examine enablers and barriers to apply zero waste concept in Sri Lankan construction industry. Third objective is to propose suitable suggestions to minimize the identified barriers and the final objective is to develop a framework to apply the zero waste concept in Sri Lankan construction industry. To achieve the objectives, comprehensive literature survey was carried out. Further, qualitative research approach was followed and eight (08) case studies were used to collect data. Semi structured interviews, document review and observations were carried out in the selected eight case studies. To analyse the collected data, individual case analysis and cross case analysis were followed. Through the case study findings, composition of C&D waste, origins and causes of C&D waste, current C&D waste management procedure, strategies, enablers, barriers and suggestion to apply zero waste concept in the Sri Lankan context were identified. Finally, all the collected data was harmonized into one place and a framework was developed to apply zero waste concept in the Sri Lankan construction industry.
The construction industry, being the largest industry, it generates massive quantities of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste. In order to eliminate C&D waste, the Zero waste concept emerged as a potential solution. Although, Construction Waste Management (COWAM) project is available for manage C&D waste in Sri Lanka, there is a lack of studies to manage C&D waste management. Thus, this study focuses on elimination of C&D waste from construction industry by applying zero waste concept. To achieve the ultimate aim of the study, four (04) objectives were developed. First objective is to review the concepts of C&D waste, Zero waste and current C&D waste management in the construction industry while the second objective is to examine enablers and barriers to apply zero waste concept in Sri Lankan construction industry. Third objective is to propose suitable suggestions to minimize the identified barriers and the final objective is to develop a framework to apply the zero waste concept in Sri Lankan construction industry. To achieve the objectives, comprehensive literature survey was carried out. Further, qualitative research approach was followed and eight (08) case studies were used to collect data. Semi structured interviews, document review and observations were carried out in the selected eight case studies. To analyse the collected data, individual case analysis and cross case analysis were followed. Through the case study findings, composition of C&D waste, origins and causes of C&D waste, current C&D waste management procedure, strategies, enablers, barriers and suggestion to apply zero waste concept in the Sri Lankan context were identified. Finally, all the collected data was harmonized into one place and a framework was developed to apply zero waste concept in the Sri Lankan construction industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Adopting circular economy practices in major building materials and elements to minimise waste in Sri Lanka
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Bimsara, KDM; Abenayake, DN; Lingasabesan, V; Shanika, VG; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Construction waste causes soil and water pollution, resulting in severe social and environmental concerns. Construction waste management systems in Sri Lanka are reactive and felt only when waste is generated. Hence, a proactive approach such as Circular Economy (CE) to minimising waste generation is required. The individual disposal of construction materials and elements contributes highly to construction waste in Sri Lanka, e.g., timber, bricks, doors, and windows. Therefore, applying CE practices concerning major building materials and elements is essential to minimise waste proactively. Thus, this study aims to guide the adoption of CE practices in major building materials and elements to minimise waste in the Sri Lankan context. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on the CE concept and its application to main building materials and elements. Using snowball sampling, ten experts fulfilling predefined criteria were selected and interviewed to collect qualitative data. The collected data were analysed using content analysis. Results show that current, material selection in Sri Lankan construction projects does not consider CE aspects. Current disposal practices include demolition and combusting while reusing and recycling are rarely used. The study recommended recycling, downcycling, cradle-to-cradle approach, material banks, and reduction to dispose of building materials and elements towards adopting the CE concept. CE can be implemented from the design stage to the whole life cycle, preferably initial stages, as an applicable practice to the Sri Lankan construction industry leading to minimising building materials and elements.
item: Conference-Full-text
Advancing digital technology adaptation in Sri Lankan construction firms
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Bandara, DMUS; Jayasinghe, JASK; Coomasaru, P; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The persisting reliance of the construction industry on traditional technologies has perpetuated inefficiencies, particularly in coordination and collaboration. Addressing the slow adoption of contemporary digital innovations, this study aims to both investigate the technical advancements and barriers impeding their integration into the Sri Lankan construction industry and find out how to facilitate their adoption. Drawing from a convenience sample of 72 professionals with diverse experiences and an expert group with over a quarter-century in the field, a mixed-methods analysis entailing NVivo for qualitative data and SPSS for quantitative insights was employed. The study spotlights Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D printing, and augmented and virtual reality as acclaimed technological strides, with unmanned aerial vehicles being less recognised. Identified obstacles include high maintenance costs, skill deficits, and industry-specific challenges, with proposed strategies such as professional training, awareness campaigns, increased investments, and governmental support. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of digital technology for productivity, accuracy, safety, and innovation in construction, aiming to guide AEC firms in overcoming digital integration barriers and facilitating the adoption of these technologies.
item: Conference-Full-text
AI models for predicting construction disputes in Sri Lanka
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Kiridana, YMWHMRRLJB; Abeynayake, MDTE; Eranga, BAI; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Construction disputes pose persistent challenges in Sri Lanka's construction industry, leading to project delays, cost overruns, and strained professional relations. This research seeks to alleviate these issues by introducing an AI-powered predictive model designed to identify and analyse dispute risks at the project's outset. By offering proactive insights, the AI model aims to enhance decision-making and facilitate the implementation of dispute prevention strategies, thereby improving overall project outcomes. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study comprehensively examined project features contributing to disputes within the Sri Lankan context. Quantitative data on project characteristics and their correlation with dispute occurrence were gathered through structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights into dispute causes and stakeholder challenges were obtained via in-depth interviews with industry experts. Through meticulous analysis of this combined data, key predictors of construction disputes were identified, including contract ambiguities, unrealistic timelines, payment delays, poor communication, and unforeseen site conditions. These findings drove the development of a machine learning-based predictive model trained to recognise patterns, predict dispute likelihoods, and suggest their nature based on identified risk factors. This innovative AI tool has the potential to revolutionise dispute management practices in Sri Lanka's construction industry. By providing stakeholders with early warnings of potential disputes, the model enables proactive mitigation strategies, such as enhanced contract drafting, optimised communication, and timely alternative dispute resolution. The long-term impact of this research extends to fostering a more collaborative and sustainable construction industry, ultimately contributing to the successful delivery of projects across Sri Lanka.
item: Conference-Full-text
Analysing complexities and uncertainties in indian megaprojects
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Mevada, J; Devkar, G; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
In India, the demand of infrastructure has been burgeoning rapidly owing to economic development and rapid pace of urbanization. Increasingly, the infrastructure planning and implementation strategy indicates the policy makers are leaning towards fulfilling this demand with megaprojects, having large scope and size, in terms of cost and resource requirements. The performance of these megaprojects has been dismissal with substantial time and cost overruns. The uncertainties and complexities associated with megaprojects is recognized as a major hurdle in effective implementation of megaprojects. There has been diversity of mechanisms adopted for managing complexities in Indian megaprojects. This paper analyses the case studies of Indian megaprojects to determine the types of mechanisms followed managing complexities as well as their effectiveness. Based on this analysis, the areas of improvement in existing mechanisms have been suggested, which would be help to the policy makers and ensure smoother implementation of megaprojects.
item: Conference-Full-text
Analysing people’s behaviour towards indoor air quality management: a case study in Kandy, Kurunagala and Hambanthota
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Wijayasenaratne, KASH; Rathnayake, RMDI; Rajakaruna, AGHM; Dulanjana, WKT; Ranasinghe, RAKS; Ariyawansha, RTK; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Indoor air quality (IAQ) management is crucial for ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment. This study aimed to assess people's behaviours on IAQ management by investigating their awareness, attitudes, and practices. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to gather data on IAQ-related habits and practices of individuals in Kurunagala-Abanpola, Kandy-Bothota, and Hamabnthtoa-Thangalle. The sample population was 156. The awareness of respondents regarding indoor air quality varied among the sampling locations. Awareness levels in Ambanpola, Bothtoa, and Thanagalle were 80%, 34.62%, and 82.14% respectively. Major sources of indoor air pollution also varied, with tobacco smoke usage (34.62%) and cooking emissions being predominant in Kandy-Bothota, while pollution associated with household cleaning products (32%) was identified as a major source in Kurunagala-Ambanpola. In contrast, cooking smoke (25%) and, cleaning products (21.43%) were identified as major indoor air pollutant sources in Hambanthtoa-Thangalle. In addition, outdoor activities such as the open burning of plastic waste, also impact indoor air quality. The majority of the respondents (42.31%) in the Kandy-Bothota region burned their plastic waste close to their dwellings, whereas the Kurunegala-Abanpola region had the lowest proportion, at 3.57%. The findings underscore varying levels of awareness among participants, largely attributed to a lack of information accessibility. The attitudes towards IAQ management were generally positive. However, the survey revealed that practical implementation of IAQ measures often fell short, indicating a gap between intention and behaviour
item: Conference-Full-text
Analysis of construction delays in mini hydropower projects in Sri Lanka
(Ceylon Institute of Builders, 2018-06) Abeygunawardana, IK; Dissanayake, TL; Swarnachandra, NI; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
The share of mini hydropower plants in electricity generation is becoming more important in modern power generation due to the national policy targets to move from the fossil fuel brown energy to sustainable green energy. Therefore, the demand for construction of the mini hydropower plants has become higher but these projects show a significant rate of delays in project delivery. This research was carried out to identify the project delay phases and the main delay factors in mini hydropower projects. Furthermore, it was expected to derive mitigating measures for mini hydropower project delay based on the findings. The data collection process was based on multiple case studies where the project planning documents of three mini hydropower projects were reviewed to extract delay information. Here, projects managers validated the information in the documents to be correct and gave an overview of what has happened during the project. Here all information extracted was discussed under the headings of the case studies (P1, P2 and P3). With information extracted, delays in ten significant phases of the mini hydropower projects were identified with its delay percentages. The most delaying phase of the mini hydro project was the weir construction while least being the fore-bay construction. Delays in hydropower projects occur mainly due to the natural consequences such as adverse weather conditions and environmental conditions such as an earth slip. Protests by the interested parties were the next major concern when it comes to delays in mini hydropower projects. Proper management of the identified delay factors and awareness of delays in relevant phases is required. Nevertheless, it was found to be essential to make the interested parties fully aware about the environmental impact even before the initiation of the project in order to successfully mitigate the significance of delays.
item: Conference-Full-text
Analysis of the current housing market in Colombo metro region to enhance the prospective consumer satisfaction
(2022-06-24) Dunuwila, SR; Devapriya, K; Sandanayake, YG; Gunatilake, S; Waidyasekara, KGAS
Housing is an essential element of social development. One consumer may purchase such a house once for his/her entire lifetime. Therefore, when making a housing purchasing decision, it is intensively explored more than it is considered in purchasing other consumable products. Property developer has the responsibility of understanding the consumer behaviour. The main research problem is the lack of attention towards the analysis of the current housing market of the Colombo Metro region from the consumer perspective. An extensive literature synthesis was carried out to gather information on the general attributes of the housing market and determinants of housing supply. Furthermore, investigation on the housing demand and consumer behaviour reference to Colombo Metro region were conducted through the literature synthesis. Subsequently, case studies and a survey have been adopted to proceed with the study following the mixed research approach. Semi-structured interviews for case studies and questionnaire survey were employed as the primary data collection. The primary data analysis was conducted through manual content analysis, Relative Important Index (RII) techniques and elementary statistical analysis. The findings revealed, how the prospective consumers are considering Person, Product, Place, Price related factors when purchasing a residential property. For an example this research discovered that quick access to Colombo is the highly considered fact by the consumers. It revealed that the consumer behaviour in Colombo Metro region is different from other contexts. Therefore, carrying out a study to analyse the current housing will be very important to maximize the consumer satisfaction in house purchasing.
item: Article-Full-text
Antecedents of noise pollution control behaviour of employees of construction companies
(Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2022) Kaluarachchi, M; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Rameezdeen, R
Purpose – Construction activities generate noise that is harmful to workers and the neighbouring community. Engineering control methods are often used for its control which are expensive and limited in effectiveness. This study aims to investigate factors that affect employee behaviour and how it could be used by construction companies to manage noise pollution on sites. Design/methodology/approach – Norm Activation Model (NAM) is used to investigate the relationship between attitudes and behaviour of site-based employees using a questionnaire survey administered in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The responses were analysed using structural equation modelling to discern behavioural patterns and how it differs between managers and workers. Findings – The results showed that behaviour of site employees could be influenced when they are aware of the consequences of noise pollution and take responsibility for its control. Personal norm of an employee and company’s environmental behaviour are found to influence the behaviour in a positive manner. Practical implications – Construction companies should focus more on how to harness their employee’s behaviour in order to reduce noise pollution on sites. Employees should be made aware of consequences of noise pollution and feel responsible for their actions through training, awareness campaigns, signage and so on. Originality/value – This study contributes to the literature by building a theoretical model of employee noise control behaviour in construction organizations and empirically testing it among managers and workers. It compares the differences between these two groups which enhances one’s understanding of behavioural control methods when applied in a construction project setting. The study also evaluates the effects of company’s environmental behaviour on employee behaviour.