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Article
Publication date: 29 March 2024

Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Opeyemi Olanrewaju Oyeyipo and Aduragbemi Deborah Olojo

This study investigates the drivers of CSR practices among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria.

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the drivers of CSR practices among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopted a questionnaire survey to achieve the aim. A purposefully chosen group of managing directors, directors, other senior construction experts or management personnel working for small, medium and large-sized construction enterprises in Nigeria were given questionnaires to complete. 196 questionnaires were issued, out of which 103 were properly completed and returned, with a return percentage of 61% which served as the basis for this study. Utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics, the collected data were examined.

Findings

The results from the study revealed that “vision of the founder”, “creating public attention”, “competitive advantage” and “business strategy” were the top most four drivers of CSR initiatives among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria. The results also showed that, there is a statistically significant degree of agreement between various categories of construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria regarding the drivers of CSR initiatives.

Originality/value

The study contributes more effectively to CSR studies by highlighting the drivers of CSR initiatives in construction companies. The finding would facilitate the adoption and implementation of CSR initiatives in construction organizations. The adoption of best CSR practices fosters strong relationship among construction companies, project stakeholders and communities.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 22 March 2024

Sheak Salman, Shah Murtoza Morshed, Md. Rezaul Karim, Rafat Rahman, Sadia Hasanat and Afia Ahsan

The imperative to conserve resources and minimize operational expenses has spurred a notable increase in the adoption of lean manufacturing within the context of the circular…

Abstract

Purpose

The imperative to conserve resources and minimize operational expenses has spurred a notable increase in the adoption of lean manufacturing within the context of the circular economy across diverse industries in recent years. However, a notable gap exists in the research landscape, particularly concerning the implementation of lean practices within the pharmaceutical industry to enhance circular economy performance. Addressing this void, this study endeavors to identify and prioritize the pivotal drivers influencing lean manufacturing within the pharmaceutical sector.

Findings

The outcome of this rigorous examination highlights that “Continuous Monitoring Process for Sustainable Lean Implementation,” “Management Involvement for Sustainable Implementation” and “Training and Education” emerge as the most consequential drivers. These factors are deemed crucial for augmenting circular economy performance, underscoring the significance of management engagement, training initiatives and a continuous monitoring process in fostering a closed-loop practice within the pharmaceutical industry.

Research limitations/implications

The findings contribute valuable insights for decision-makers aiming to adopt lean practices within a circular economy framework. Specifically, by streamlining the process of developing a robust action plan tailored to the unique needs of the pharmaceutical sector, our study provides actionable guidance for enhancing overall sustainability in the manufacturing processes.

Originality/value

This study represents one of the initial efforts to systematically identify and assess the drivers to LM implementation within the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the emerging body of knowledge in this area.

Details

International Journal of Industrial Engineering and Operations Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2690-6090

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 March 2024

John Aliu, Doyin Hellen Agbaje, Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke and Andrew Ebekozien

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the driving forces behind the adoption of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) principles in building designs from the perspectives…

Abstract

Purpose

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the driving forces behind the adoption of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) principles in building designs from the perspectives of Nigerian quantity surveying firms.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach was used which involved administering a well-structured questionnaire to a sample of 114 quantity surveyors. The collected data were analyzed using various statistical methods, including frequencies, percentages, mean item scores, Kruskal–Wallis test and exploratory factor analysis.

Findings

The top five ranked drivers were climate change mitigation, conservation of natural resources, reduction of waste and pollution, use of sustainable building materials and development of new materials and building systems. Based on the factor analysis, the study identified five clusters of drivers: (1) health and well-being drivers (2) economic drivers (3) environmental drivers (4) innovation and technology drivers and (5) regulatory drivers.

Practical implications

The findings from this study suggest that to effectively integrate IEQ principles, quantity surveying firms should consider developing comprehensive guidelines and checklists that align with the identified drivers and clustered categories. These resources can serve as practical tools for project teams, facilitating a structured and holistic approach to the incorporation of IEQ factors throughout the project lifecycle.

Originality/value

The study’s identification of the top drivers and the subsequent clustering of these drivers into five distinct categories contributes to the existing body of knowledge on IEQ. This approach provides a structured framework for comprehensively understanding the factors influencing IEQ adoption, offering a valuable tool for researchers, policymakers and industry practitioners.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 January 2024

Chang Chen, Yuandong Liang, Jiten Sun, Chen Lin and Yehao Wen

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a variable distance pneumatic gripper with embedded flexible sensors, which can effectively grasp fragile and flexible objects.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a variable distance pneumatic gripper with embedded flexible sensors, which can effectively grasp fragile and flexible objects.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the motion principle of the three-jaw chuck and the pneumatic “fast pneumatic network” (FPN), a variable distance pneumatic holder embedded with a flexible sensor is designed. A structural design plan and preparation process of a soft driver is proposed, using carbon nanotubes as filler in a polyurethane (PU) sponge. A flexible bending sensor based on carbon nanotube materials was produced. A static model of the soft driver cavity was established, and a bending simulation was performed. Based on the designed variable distance soft pneumatic gripper, a real-time monitoring and control system was developed. Combined with the developed pneumatic control system, gripping experiments on objects of different shapes and easily deformable and fragile objects were conducted.

Findings

In this paper, a variable-distance pneumatic gripper embedded with a flexible sensor was designed, and a control system for real-time monitoring and multi-terminal input was developed. Combined with the developed pneumatic control system, a measure was carried out to measure the relationship between the bending angle, output force and air pressure of the soft driver. Flexible bending sensor performance test. The gripper diameter and gripping weight were tested, and the maximum gripping diameter was determined to be 182 mm, the maximum gripping weight was approximately 900 g and the average measurement error of the bending sensor was 5.91%. Objects of different shapes and easily deformable and fragile objects were tested.

Originality/value

Based on the motion principle of the three-jaw chuck and the pneumatic FPN, a variable distance pneumatic gripper with embedded flexible sensors is proposed by using the method of layered and step-by-step preparation. The authors studied the gripper structure design, simulation analysis, prototype preparation, control system construction and experimental testing. The results show that the designed flexible pneumatic gripper with variable distance can grasp common objects.

Details

Industrial Robot: the international journal of robotics research and application, vol. 51 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 February 2024

Anupama Prashar and Vijaya Sunder M.

This study responds to the calls from the literature on identifying interactions among the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) drivers, which influence focal firms’ SSCM…

Abstract

Purpose

This study responds to the calls from the literature on identifying interactions among the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) drivers, which influence focal firms’ SSCM decisions. It also determines how the effect of SSCM drivers differs across the upstream and downstream supply chains (SCs) entities of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) companies.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ a multi-method design encompassing three studies: study 1 (multiple-case study), study 2 (quantitative survey), and study 3 (multiple-criteria decision-making or MCDM modeling).

Findings

The results show that the external drivers such as customer pressure, competition, and supplier pressure and internal drivers such as top management commitment interact to influence the adoption of SSCM practices, and this interaction is diverse across upstream and downstream SC entities of the FMCG sector. The study provides empirical evidence of relationships among the SSCM drivers, which influence SSCM decisions.

Originality/value

Understanding these interactions will help managers derive strategies to manage the overall SSCM ecosystem and recognize the multiplier effects of upstream to downstream and vice versa.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2024

Yavuz Idug, David Gligor, Jamie Porchia, Suman Niranjan, Ila Manuj and David R. Nowicki

Drawing on the social identity theory, this paper explores the impact of rider–driver ethnicity match on the driver’s expected ride satisfaction and willingness to perform, and…

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on the social identity theory, this paper explores the impact of rider–driver ethnicity match on the driver’s expected ride satisfaction and willingness to perform, and rider’s trust on the driver.

Design/methodology/approach

The study relies on scenario-based online experiments with 291 ride-hailing drivers and 282 riders in the USA.

Findings

The findings indicate that ethnicity match between ride-hailing drivers and riders positively impact driver’s ride satisfaction and willingness to perform, and rider’s trust in the driver. The study also revealed a significant positive moderation effect of ethnic identity on the relationship of ethnicity match and those constructs.

Practical implications

While it may be challenging to influence an individual’s level of ethnic identity, managers can take steps to educate and train their employees regarding the impact of ethnic identity and discrimination, with a particular focus on those individuals who possess a strong sense of ethnic identity.

Originality/value

The findings of this research provide theoretical contributions to the existing literature on ride-hailing services and adds to the limited stream of logistics research that examines the impact of ethnicity on ride-hailing operations.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 June 2010

Takahiro Wada, Shoji Hiraoka and Shun'ichi Doi

The purpose of this paper is to realize a smooth and secure brake assistance system to avoid rear‐end collision of automobiles.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to realize a smooth and secure brake assistance system to avoid rear‐end collision of automobiles.

Design/methodology/approach

It is important to judge necessity of deceleration assistance as early as possible and initiate the assistance naturally in order to reduce rear‐end crashes. However, it easily results in driver's discomfort. In addition, deceleration profile of the automatic braking is also important to realize smooth collision avoidance. In this paper, a deceleration assistance control for collision avoidance will be proposed based on the formulated braking behavior models of expert drivers to realize smooth, secure brake assistance.

Findings

The proposed brake assistance system can realize smooth deceleration profile and appropriate final status of the two vehicles for various approaching conditions. In addition, experimental results using a driving simulator will show validity of the proposed system based on subjective evaluation. It is also shown that the system realizes smooth deceleration control even under existence of the interaction between human driver and the system.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not deal with effect of the deceleration method on change of drivers' behavior, including driver's trust on the system. Over‐trust should be eliminated if any.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is to derive smooth secure collision avoidance system based on the driver's perceptual risk model. This method can realize smooth collision avoidance behavior for the various approaching conditions with a unified simple algorithm.

Details

Industrial Robot: An International Journal, vol. 37 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-991X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 1992

Edith Gulian‐Minshull

Describes coping strategies which make it possible to counteractand prevent driver stress. Driver stress is defined by increasedaggression and alertness, a dislike of driving, and…

Abstract

Describes coping strategies which make it possible to counteract and prevent driver stress. Driver stress is defined by increased aggression and alertness, a dislike of driving, and frustration and irritation elicited by interaction with other road‐users, in particular in relation to overtaking. It is associated with life stresses and health and emotional problems and affects the driver′s road safety.

Details

Employee Councelling Today, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-8217

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 April 2015

Rameshwar Dubey and Angappa Gunasekaran

The purpose of this paper is to identify traits and skills of a truck driver for sustainable transportation, develop a theoretical framework and outline further research…

2309

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify traits and skills of a truck driver for sustainable transportation, develop a theoretical framework and outline further research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study undertakes a review of extant literature and appreciative inquiry, a quasi-ethnographic approach to identify traits and skills of a truck driver. Further, using a pragmatic approach, a theoretical framework has been developed.

Findings

The study proposes a theoretical framework, which can be further used for formulating training modules for truck drivers for sustainable transportation and logistics.

Research limitations/implications

The present framework needs to be statistically validated using survey data and second, the proposition of the theoretical framework needs to be tested using hierarchical regression analysis. Second, in the study the authors have used AI. However, the authors have only interviewed selected senior police officials. This may lead to bias and to further strengthen the present study, one needs to identify other regulatory authorities and human resource managers of transportation companies. However, in Indian subcontinent situation the trucks are primarily owned by unorganized sector. Hence, the owners may have five to ten trucks and this case there is no human resource manager. However, in such case an interview with truck owners may provide a useful insight.

Practical implications

The study has outlined recommendations on the basis of a literature review of extant literature and appreciative inquiry. The recommendations can further help policy makers or technical bodies run by a government agencies or privately managed to develop a training module for truck drivers to meet the future challenges of sustainable transportation.

Social implications

This research is related to truck drivers and their welfare as well as how they can contribute to sustainable transportation and logistics.

Originality/value

This research attempts to identify traits and skills of a truck driver for a sustainable transportation and logistics, and develops a theoretical framework and outline further research directions. This particular study ventures into new domain (the role of truck driver's role in sustainable logistics and transportation).

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 47 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1970

The Minister of Transport, in exercise of his powers under section 98 of the Transport Act 1968 and of all other enabling powers, and after consultation with representative…

Abstract

The Minister of Transport, in exercise of his powers under section 98 of the Transport Act 1968 and of all other enabling powers, and after consultation with representative organisations in accordance with section 101(6) of the said Act of 1968, hereby makes the following Regulations:—

Details

Managerial Law, vol. 8 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0558

1 – 10 of over 86000