WCS - 2024

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://192.248.9.226/handle/123/22691

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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
A Comparative analysis of operational energy by simulation study between modern buildings and adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Sri Lanka
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Thirukumaran, N; Prabodani, MKM; Ranasinghe, SS; Jayasinghe, GY; Halwathura, RU; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The adaptive reuse of buildings is emerging as a sustainable solution within the built environment, addressing global challenges like climate change and greenhouse gas emissions faced by the world's population. Opting to repurpose energy-efficient historic buildings during the operational phase instead of demolishing and constructing new structures is recognized as a protective mechanism for urban cultural heritage. The escalating operational energy consumption in the building sector poses direct and indirect environmental, economic, and social concerns for occupants. This study aimed to compare the operational energy efficiency of adaptive reuse historic buildings and modern structures, seeking to identify the most energy-efficient building type. Energy consumption patterns, especially for air conditioning and lighting in residential houses, were gathered and simulated using DesignBuilder software, considering building materials as variables in both the old and new phases of the buildings. Ten Dutch-era residential dwellings were selected, and a specific schedule was analysed for energy simulations. The average Energy Use Intensity (EUI) value for old buildings in the scheduled case was lower than the newly modelled buildings. The research concludes that old historic buildings are comparatively more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than new buildings for operational use based on the building envelope in the selected study area.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Conceptual framework to manage circular economy knowledge in construction projects
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Koralage, MB; Udawatta, N; Karunasena, G; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Circular Economy (CE) implementation in the construction industry has gained wider attention worldwide due to its ability to minimise the negative impacts of construction industry practices. However, gaps in CE knowledge have hindered CE implementation in the construction industry. Although the necessity of Knowledge Management (KM) for CE transition has been raised in numerous studies, existing literature has a dearth of CE KM studies, which is further limited in the construction context. Thus, this research aims to develop a conceptual framework to manage CE knowledge in construction projects by investigating required CE knowledge for construction professionals. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to achieve this aim by analysing the literature using manual content analysis. The findings of this research highlight the overlaying impact of knowledge and KM on financial, market, technology, policy, and culture-related enablers and barriers of CE implementation in the construction industry. Furthermore, the potential of knowledge on addressing context and concept-related barriers to implementing CE was discussed, and a bespoke KM cycle with seven steps has been established, highlighting the importance of the KM cycle for CE KM rather than using the KM process. Finally, a conceptual framework for CE KM of the construction industry has been developed, revealing a shell view of these concepts. These findings will be beneficial for construction practitioners to i). understand areas of knowledge to be improved, and ii). identify KM actions to initiate improvements to ensure the implementation of CE principles.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Maturity model for digitalisation of small and medium enterprise contractors in the Sri Lankan construction industry: a focus on client and technology dimensions
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Devapriya, DPALC; Palliyaguru, R; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) tremendously contribute to Sri Lanka's economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the total Gross Domestic Product of the country. However, many SMEs underperform due to limited digital technology use. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, highlighting the potential for significant competitive advantages through digital transformation. This research aimed to identify key digitalisation aspects relevant to small and medium-scale construction firms and establish a mechanism for assessing the maturity of digitalisation by proposing a digitalisation maturity model tailored to SMEs operating within the Sri Lankan construction industry. The maturity model was derived based on the findings from a comprehensive literature review and a focus group discussion that was composed of ten construction professionals. The primary dimensions of the model include Client, Technology, Operations, Organisation and Culture. However, this manuscript presents a detailed study carried out for Client and Technology dimensions only. Within these two dimensions, nine sub-dimensions and 41 digital criteria were identified, which can be employed for the assessment of digital maturity within organisations.
item: Conference-Full-text
A Simplified guide towards incentivising embodied carbon assessment: a case of high-rise residential building
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Sachchithananthan, M; Ramachandra, T; Geekiyanage, D; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
In recent decades, the increasing threat of global warming has emphasised the importance of reducing carbon emissions within construction sector due to its significant impact. Despite efforts to mitigate climate change, the construction industry faces a critical gap in effectively evaluating the carbon emissions and costing it. The major reasons could be attributed to lack of awareness of carbon performance and commitment, lack of data availability and inconsistent methodologies. Hence, this study aims to develop a simplified guide, as an extension to the typical cost estimation practice towards addressing the above concerns with respect to embodied carbon (EC). This study primarily involved a quantitative assessment of EC emission of a typical high-rise residential building in Sri Lanka. Therefore, BOQ of the selected building and additional information such as material and machinery requirements, EC co-efficient, fuel consumption and transportation distance were obtained from technical specifications, industry practiced norms and databases. Accordingly, the EC emission of the selected building was derived as 873KgCO2/m2 of GFA. Of this, 94% is due to material production stage, while remaining 6% is in transportation and construction stages. Key materials contributed include: paint, cement and reinforcement. The steps followed in deriving the above estimation is presented as a simplified guide that would promote and account the construction clients for the EC emission of their proposed building constructions. By integrating EC assessment (ECA) into the construction cost estimation process, this guide seeks to empower decision-makers to choose among carbon alternatives and aid in carbon taxation in the Sri Lankan context.
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.
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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: 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
An Examination of green space exposure for well-being: a case study of Colombo city
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Samaranayake, HSAJ; Coorey, SBA; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The rapid increase in population density has led to a scarcity of green spaces and limited access to green space for urban dwellers. Green spaces play an important role in promoting human well-being; both socially and psychologically. Ensuring equal access to green spaces is essential for creating equitable cities. When everyone has the opportunity to enjoy parks, gardens, and natural areas, it contributes to a healthier and more inclusive urban environment. However, Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling city faces challenges in providing habitable and accessible green areas for its residents. This paper aims to assess green space exposure in the city of Colombo. The study examines the provisions, distribution, and accessibility of green areas across CMC’s administrative areas, including North Colombo, Central Colombo 1, Central Colombo 2, Colombo East, Colombo West, and Borella. By using a multidimensional approach that combines ArcGIS mapping, spatial tools, population statistics, and remote sensing (via NDVI mapping), the research explores green space availability and proximity-based accessibility for the diverse urban population. This investigation is crucial for informed urban planning and enhancing the quality of life for Colombo’s residents.
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
Applicability of the atmospheric water generation: the case of hotel industry in Sri Lanka
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Wijesundara, PM; Hadiwattage, C; Chandani, GGN; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The proliferation of plastic drinking water bottles poses significant environmental, economic, and social challenges globally. In response, many countries are seeking alternative methods to provide safe drinking water. Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) have emerged as a promising solution, yet their implementation remains novel, particularly in countries like Sri Lanka. This paper explores the feasibility of implementing AWGs in the hotel industry in Sri Lanka to mitigate reliance on bottled water. Through a comprehensive literature review and quantitative research methodology including questionnaire surveys, the functional requirements, constraints, drivers, barriers, and strategies for AWG implementation were identified and analysed. The findings underscore the critical importance of factors such as low relative humidity, wide temperature range functionality, energy efficiency, water quality, and appropriate design in selecting AWGs. While drivers like higher efficiency, governmental support, and public awareness propel AWG adoption, barriers such as high initial investment, energy consumption, and mineral deficiency pose challenges. Strategies to overcome these barriers include lifecycle cost analysis, renewable energy integration, vendor selection, and mineral supplementation. The research contributes to understanding successful AWG implementation in the Sri Lankan hotel industry, addressing water bottle consumption's environmental and socio-economic impacts. This study highlights the urgency of transitioning to sustainable water solutions and provides practical insights for stakeholders to navigate the implementation of AWGs effectively.
item: Conference-Full-text
Application of biomimicry concept to improve the sustainability of the construction industry: a literature review
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Silva, FHYD; Perera, BASK; Atapattu, AMDS; Jayanetti, JKDDT; Wijewickrama, MKCS; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The growing need for urbanisation has resulted in the intense development of the construction industry, which has negatively impacted the conservation of the environment. In this regard, to preserve the ecosystems, the concept of sustainable development was introduced, however, the effectiveness of the existing sustainability practices in the construction industry is at a questionable level. Meanwhile, the evolving concept of biomimicry, which inspires and learns from natural processes, has proven the capacity to achieve sustainable parameters when incorporated into construction processes. Yet, there is a noticeable gap in applying the biomimicry concept to improve the sustainability of the construction industry. Therefore, this study aims to comprehend the applicability of the biomimicry concept in improving the sustainability of the construction industry. Accordingly, a comprehensive literature review was conducted on existing studies related to the biomimicry concept. The content analysis method was used to analyse the collected data. The findings suggested that the biomimicry concept can contribute to sustainable parameters such as material efficiency, energy efficiency and zero-waste concept. Accordingly, this study reveals the potential to improve the sustainability of the construction industry by comprehending the application of the biomimicry concept in detail. In this regard, the study discovers the enablers, barriers and strategies for biomimicry application in the construction industry. Accordingly, this study contributes to the theory and bridges the knowledge gap in utilising biomimicry applications to enhance the sustainability of the construction industry. It demonstrates how various biomimicry inspirations can positively impact sustainable parameters such as material efficiency, energy efficiency, and zero waste, thereby revealing the concept's applicability in developing a sustainable built environment.
item: Conference-Full-text
Application of circular economy principles into tropical building designs: a literature review
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Kalu Arachchi, KACS; Perera, BAKS; Piyumra, RAD; Jayasuriya, S; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The increasing intensity of global population growth has heightened the demand for buildings in tropical zones. Consequently, meeting this burgeoning demand poses a significant challenge to the construction sector, compounded by resource scarcity. As a result, there is mounting pressure on construction building designs to transition towards more sustainable practices. In response, Circular Economy (CE) principles are being considered for incorporation into tropical building designs to enhance sustainability. Thus, this research endeavours to assess the feasibility of integrating CE principles into building designs as a means of advancing sustainability. Adopting content analysis collected data were analysed. The study revealed that tropical building designs offer a sustainable method well-suited to address the growing demand for buildings. Furthermore, it was identified ten enabling factors, thirty-five barriers, and twenty-four strategies in relation to the application of CE principles to building designs. It was revealed that the findings of the study will drive the convergence of CE principles with tropical building designs. Consequently, this research contributes to the theory by bridging the gap in utilising CE principles within building designs to enhance sustainability in the construction industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Assessing the importance of implementing wearable technologies for construction employees in the Sri Lankan context
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Dilani, K; Mapa, MMIS; Konara, G; Samarakoon, WKURMKPK; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) is important in the construction industry, as it can help ensure the physical, mental and social well-being of workers when performing work-related tasks. Wearable Safety Devices (WSDs) can proactively detect hazards and perform real-time surveillance, enabling the elimination and control of risks and improved safety outcomes. As useful as it is, there are a few things that affect adoption, such as high initial costs, lack of understanding and privacy concerns. This study identifies wearables technology applications that apply to construction. Based on the outcomes, Sri Lankan construction workers exhibited a preference for wearable technologies. Participants in the construction industry provide data via a questionnaire survey, which is then analysed and prioritised using the Relative Importance Index (RII) for wearable technology applications. The key finding from the document identifies that smart shoe for roofing work, smart glasses for dust particles and smart helmets for working at heights are the most prioritised wearable technologies in the Sri Lankan construction industry for enhancing OSH practices. In addition, this study provides insights into how essential it is to introduce wearable technology, from the point of view of overall safety and health implantation practices in the Sri Lankan construction industry and emphasises the importance of a systematic implementation approach suited to the needs and challenges of this region.
item: Conference-Full-text
Assessment of community disaster resilience in Sri Lanka: methodological approach in developing an index
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Dharmadasa, KHK; Kulatunga, U; Thayaparan, M; Keraminiyage, KP; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Disasters threaten communities, causing immense damage to life, property, and overall well-being. In recent years, the frequency and impact of disasters have increased, highlighting the urgent need for enhancing Community Disaster Resilience (CDR). CDR refers to a community's ability to effectively anticipate, respond to, and recover from disasters. This research presents the proposed methodology to develop an index to measure community resilience to disasters in Sri Lanka. Based on the previous studies on resilience, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted to identify all possible proxy indicators of CDR across economic, social, institutional, physical, environmental, and human health dimensions. The primary data collection and analysis will be conducted using a systematic approach called Q-methodology. As the SLR results generated too many items in the first instance, a pilot study will be undertaken to reduce the number and to identify the most relevant indicators (Q-set) for measuring CDR in Sri Lanka. This Q-set data will be ranked based on how much each expert in the field of disaster management, who will be selected through the snowball technique, would agree with each identified indicator (Q-sort). Then, Q-sort data is subjected to factor analysis to determine the inter-correlation between the results of Q-sorting. The qualitative data gathered during Q-sorting is expected to be analysed using thematic analysis. Finally, the index will be constructed by deriving the weightage of each indicator based on the Q-sorting results. This paper provides an extensive illustration of the above methodology.
item: Conference-Full-text
Assessment of effective waste recycling practices to minimise construction and demolition waste in Sri Lankan construction industry
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Amararathne, MROV; Bandara, KPSPK; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
The construction industry, a vital sector driving global development, simultaneously contributes significantly to waste generation. This research delves into the assessment of effective waste recycling practices to minimise Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste in the Sri Lankan Construction Industry. The study aims to evaluate the most applicability waste recycling practices, identify implementation barriers, and provide recommendations for overcoming these barriers. A comprehensive literature review highlights the global significance of the construction industry and its substantial contribution to waste production. Effective waste management is crucial for cost, quality, time, and environmental impact. It advocates for scientific consultation to determine appropriate waste management practices, considering extended producer responsibility, Waste-to-Energy, material recovery facilities, source separation and landfill options. C&D waste production is linked to ecological consequences, necessitating sustainable waste management practices. Recycling C&D waste emerges as a viable mitigation strategy, offering benefits such as landslide risk reduction, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and natural resource protection. The research methodology used in this study is mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Major findings include appropriate waste recycling practices, implementation barriers, and recommendations for overcoming barriers. Waste management policy regulation and enforcement being the most applicable waste recycling practice according to RII analysis. The identified most significant barrier was the absence of rules and enforcement. Recommendations focus on awareness programs, incentivising through the tendering process, education and training, seeking international guidance and technology and government support programs. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in advancing waste recycling practices in the Sri Lankan Construction Industry.
item: Conference-Full-text
Augmenting performance of prefabricated MEP modular systems via BIM integration
(Department of Building Economics, 2024) Ranathunga, JDR; Hadiwattege, C; Thennakoon, TMPN; Sandanayake, YG; Waidyasekara, KGAS; Ranadewa, KATO; Chandanie, H
Within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sectors, prefabrication is an emerging technology which concerned with the construction production process and serves as a manufacturing platform to improve productivity and safety management. Whether they are located off-site or on-site, the coordination and fabrication of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems have consistently presented challenges. MEP designers lack the necessary expertise to create detailed models for prefabrication, but designers proposed enhancing collaboration with fabricators to develop installation-level BIM models for design coordination, construction planning, on-site delivery planning, clash detection, and fabrication planning in Modular MEP construction. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the integration of BIM in enhancing the performance for time, cost, and quality aspects of prefabricated MEP modular systems in buildings. Accordingly, a qualitative research strategy was chosen to achieve the aim, data were collected through twelve (12) semi-structured expert interviews. Experts were selected through purposive sampling followed by snowball sampling. The data analysis was conducted through manual content analysis. Findings revealed how efficiently BIM addresses the time, cost, and quality of prefabricated MEP modular systems. Finally, as a contribution to knowledge, the study revealed the importance of BIM and how it enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the prefabricated MEP modular system.

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