Abstracts – Browse Results
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Ahern, E (2022) A framework for improving the process of building certification to enhance energy efficiency: the case of Ireland, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Akande, O K (2015) Factors influencing operational energy performance and refurbishment of UK listed church buildings: towards a strategic management framework, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Alkhraisha, A (2023) Approaches for enhancing the construction and demolition waste management strategy in Jordan, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Bispham, J (2008) Historic imported softwood in eastern England: past knowledge, current perceptions and conservation, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Burrell, P A (2017) Structural errors and failures in construction: is knowledge hidden?, Unpublished PhD Thesis, School of Engineering & the Built Environment, Anglia Ruskin University.
- Type: Thesis
- Keywords: building defects; errors; interview; litigation; professional indemnity; knowledge sharing; quality assurance
- ISBN/ISSN:
- URL: http://arro.anglia.ac.uk/id/eprint/703821/
- Abstract:
Structural errors and failures within construction appear to be not reported to other professionals in the industry. This results in little advancement of knowledge and understanding, with the consequence that similar failings are repeated. For example, in 2016 Construction accounted for 6% of the Gross Domestic Product, of this 7% was lost in disputes. There were, however, 30 fatalities. A study of cases from the author's practice, into building defects, errors and failures was undertaken. This identified four areas: the education of chartered structural engineers, legislation, the management of construction projects and business ethics, as contributing to errors and failures. A series of open-ended, semi-structured interviews was also undertaken with senior professionals, including the judiciary, professors of engineering, global consultants, and professional indemnity insurers. Research findings revealed that technical knowledge is deliberately withheld due to non-disclosure clauses in mediated settlements, and through the practices of global professional indemnity insurers. A study of pass rates for chartered membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers showed a decrease, despite an increase of academic requirement. Companies that promote corporate social responsibility credentials often, however, seek the best commercial deal regarding litigation settlement. Furthermore, companies adopt a Friedman business model, which favours shareholders in preference to a Freeman approach, which recognises the interests of all stakeholders. Quality assurance systems used in other industries are not easily and effectively suited to construction practices. This research concludes there is a sound business case to share knowledge, which would reduce claims, increase profits and save lives. Primary legislation must be changed to compel a free exchange of technical knowledge regarding errors and structural failures. A 'no blame' repository needs to be established that should help reduce the adversarial nature of the construction industry. Additionally, the suitability of the academic degree curriculum for structural engineers needs to be reassessed.
Crabtree, P J (2014) The optimisation of construction management higher education to promote professional competencies and professional capability, Unpublished PhD Thesis, Department of Engineering and the Built Environment, Anglia Ruskin University.
Crascall, L M (2021) Re-imagining built environment education: investigating the pracademic through autoethnography, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Gale, K (2013) An evaluation of performance improvement within public sector construction framework agreements, Unpublished PhD Thesis, Department of Engineering and the Built Environment, Anglia Ruskin University.
Hobart, C (2019) Building sustainability assessment schemes: The role of criteria in translating aims into effect, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Muleya, F (2014) Modelling wheeled construction plant performance in clay and sandy terrain : a terramechanics perspective, Unpublished PhD Thesis, Department of Engineering and the Built Environment, Anglia Ruskin University.
Powell, M J V (2003) Built environment and biblical theology: Making connections: Discerning relationships, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Quarterman, M (2017) Acquisition of higher-order professional competencies: a new synergistic learning model, Unpublished PhD Thesis, School of Engineering & the Built Environment, Anglia Ruskin University.
Talbot, B (2021) A novel data-driven tool to improve construction schedule accuracy, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Vohmann, B (2019) Authentic assessment to enhance undergraduates' learning and development as effective practitioners in built environment disciplines, Unpublished PhD Thesis, , Anglia Ruskin University.
Zhao, Y (2016) Green supply chain management drivers/pressures, practices and performance in Chinese construction industry, Unpublished PhD Thesis, Lord Ashcroft International Business School, Anglia Ruskin University.