Analyzing COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies in the Construction Industry
Publication: International Conference on Transportation and Development 2024
ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant operational disruptions in the construction industry. While a wealth of literature suggests best practices, a discernible gap remains in gauging the consensus among industry professionals on these recommendations. Specifically, uncertainty arises regarding the degree to which construction engineers and managers align with these best practices during the pandemic. Additionally, there is a notable knowledge void concerning the real-world effectiveness and adaptability of these strategies. Addressing these concerns and aiming to fill the identified gaps, the primary objective of this research is to elucidate the favored mitigation strategies in the construction sector during the COVID-19 crisis. To achieve this objective, survey responses from 131 construction engineers and managers were analyzed using relative importance index (RII). The results revealed that establishing an effective communication system emerged as a top priority among industry professionals. Furthermore, restructuring, diversifying supply chains, and the inclusion of a force majeure clause specific to COVID-19-related delays were also highlighted by respondents. The study’s contributions aim to enhance the construction sector’s resilience, adaptability, and preparedness for both immediate and long-term challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers comprehensive guidelines and positions itself as a quintessential reference for engineers, managers, policymakers, and other industry stakeholders.
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International Conference on Transportation and Development 2024
Pages: 421 - 430
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Published online: Jun 13, 2024
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