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Article
Publication date: 6 May 2020

Fire safety management of public buildings: a systematic review of hospital buildings in Asia

Naziah Muhamad Salleh, Nuzaihan Aras Agus Salim, Mastura Jaafar, Mohd Zailan Sulieman and Andrew Ebekozien

There is increasing recognition amongst healthcare providers on the necessity to improve fire safety management in healthcare facilities. This is possibly not yet…

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Abstract

Purpose

There is increasing recognition amongst healthcare providers on the necessity to improve fire safety management in healthcare facilities. This is possibly not yet satisfactory because of recent fire incidents in Asia. This paper set out to analyse the literature because of the paucity of systematic reviews on fire safety management of public healthcare facilities and proffer preventive measures.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty related studies were identified with the support of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses via Scopus and Web of Science databases.

Findings

Influencing factors, hindrances to fire safety management and preventive measures for fire-related occurrence in Asian hospital buildings were the three themes that emerged from the reviewed. The factors that influence fire in Asian hospital buildings were categorised into technical, management and legislation factors.

Research limitations/implications

The recommendations of this paper were based on literature that was systematically reviewed but does not compromise the robustness concerning fire safety management in hospital buildings across Asian countries. Much is needed to be known regarding fire safety in healthcare buildings across Asian countries. This paper recommended exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach as part of the implications for further studies. This will allow in-depth face-to-face interviews and increase the generalisability of future findings concerning fire safety management in hospital buildings across Asian countries to a larger population.

Practical implications

As part of the practical implications, this paper recommends fire safety management plan as one of the practical possible measures for addressing technical, management and legislation factors. Also recommended is training and fire safety education of healthcare staff in collaboration with safety firefighters to address major issues that may arise from management factors. The government should upgrade the safety technology equipment in healthcare facilities as part of measures to mitigate issues concerning technical and legislation factors. Also, the identified factors are part of the theoretical contributions to the advancement of knowledge and this brings to the front burners new opening.

Originality/value

This is probably the first systematic review paper on fire safety hospital buildings in Asia.

Details

Property Management, vol. 38 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/PM-12-2019-0069
ISSN: 0263-7472

Keywords

  • Facilities
  • Healthcare
  • Fire hindrances
  • Fire safety plan
  • Preventive measures
  • Asia

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Article
Publication date: 14 January 2019

Difficult bosses: real strategies for surviving

Marius Pretorius

The plight of dissatisfied employees has become a recurring theme. A question often asked by management trainees is “How do I handle my difficult boss?” Hence, this paper…

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Abstract

Purpose

The plight of dissatisfied employees has become a recurring theme. A question often asked by management trainees is “How do I handle my difficult boss?” Hence, this paper aims to address the difficult boss problem successfully from the perspective of the subordinate.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptualized legacy framework had been presented to participants and who verified its accuracy by their experiences. They could apply the framework with relative ease. Workshops, interview and online questionnaires informed the development of the framework.

Findings

The framework proposes four legacy effects on subordinates that bosses leave after interaction, namely, tense, dark, false and calm legacies. The legacies assist subordinates in classifying their bosses as either a hammer, flat battery, fire-lighter or dynamo. Once the boss is categorized, strategies to assist subordinates in handling their difficult boss flow from the framework.

Research limitations/implications

While extremely useful for subordinates, bosses are limited in the use of the legacy model as it requires very high trust levels to exist. The nature of the difficult boss problem suggests that such trust does not exist.

Practical implications

Benefits of understanding the legacy framework has two benefits: subordinates can use the legacy tool to classify their bosses and find strategies for how to handle difficult bosses. For bosses, subordinate evaluation of their legacies presents an alternative avenue to seek feedback and improve “self-learning” through reflection.

Originality/value

The legacy matrix was shown to be applicable to all bosses at all levels in virtually all organizations. The value of the framework was also observed at the informal level.

Details

Journal of Business Strategy, vol. 40 no. 1
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JBS-02-2018-0019
ISSN: 0275-6668

Keywords

  • Strategies

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Article
Publication date: 1 July 2002

A computer simulation model of emergency egress for space planners

S.M. Lo, Z. Fang, G.S. Zhi and K.K. Yuen

The spatial design of a building affects the movement of occupants. In complex buildings with a large population, such as places of assembly, the movement of people…

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Abstract

The spatial design of a building affects the movement of occupants. In complex buildings with a large population, such as places of assembly, the movement of people towards the exits under emergency situations is a major concern. Ideally, people should leave the building smoothly under emergency situations. Traditionally the layout design is governed by the building fire codes. However, the building fire codes merely govern the design of the capacity of individual components, and do not guarantee that smooth egress will occur. Full‐scale egress exercises may be needed to examine the layout arrangement in order to understand the layout problem. However, such exercises may be time‐consuming, or may be impossible when the building has yet to be constructed. Therefore, the use of computer models to simulate the egress pattern can assist not only the building designer, but also the facility manager to plan the spatial arrangement as well as to manage the crowd flow during emergency situations. Discusses the use of a computer model for analysing building layout design.

Details

Facilities, vol. 20 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770210435170
ISSN: 0263-2772

Keywords

  • Space planning
  • Fire safety
  • Accidents
  • Computer simulation

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Article
Publication date: 18 April 2008

Understanding the influence of organizational culture and group dynamics on organizational change and learning

Colleen Lucas and Theresa Kline

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between organizational culture, group dynamics, and organizational learning in the context of organizational change.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between organizational culture, group dynamics, and organizational learning in the context of organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was used to examine cultural and group level factors that potentially influence groups' learning in the context of organizational change.

Findings

Major themes that emerged as influencing organizational change and learning were a culture of mistrust, changing psychological contracts, differing occupational cultures, power differential between groups, and leadership.

Practical implications

When initiating change efforts, an organization needs to assess and understand what aspects of the culture can be facilitators or hindrances and what aspects of the group structures the organization can use to facilitate learning.

Originality/value

This study extends research in the area of group and organizational learning by identifying group and cultural phenomena that, when manifested, had significant influence on group members' response to organizational change and their capacity to learn. In particular, this study highlights the need to be aware of the characteristics unique to the organization and its culture.

Details

The Learning Organization, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/09696470810868882
ISSN: 0969-6474

Keywords

  • Learning organizations
  • Group dynamics
  • Organizational change
  • Organizational culture

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Article
Publication date: 3 December 2018

Do cognitive appraisals moderate the link between qualitative job insecurity and psychological-behavioral well-being?

Morteza Charkhabi

The purpose of this paper is to detect the association between qualitative job insecurity and well-being related outcomes and to determine the extent to which cognitive…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detect the association between qualitative job insecurity and well-being related outcomes and to determine the extent to which cognitive appraisals of job insecurity moderate this association. According to appraisal theory, it is anticipated a hindrance appraisal of job insecurity to amplify and a challenge appraisal of job insecurity to buffer this association.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypotheses, 250 healthcare employees from different departments of an Iranian large public hospital were recruited. Participants responded to scales on qualitative job insecurity, cognitive appraisals, job satisfaction, emotional exhaustion, absenteeism and presenteeism.

Findings

Results showed that qualitative job insecurity negatively influenced both psychological and behavioral well-being; however, this influence was greater for psychological well-being than for behavioral well-being. Besides, the moderation tests showed that only the hindrance appraisals of job insecurity amplified the link between job insecurity and psychological outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

This study sampled employees from a public hospital and did not include employees from private hospitals. This may limit the generalizability of the findings. Also, due to using a cross-sectional research design we encourage future studies to replicate the same findings using other different research designs.

Practical implications

The findings aid occupational health psychologists to design particular interventions for protecting those aspects of employee’s well-being that are more vulnerable when qualitative job insecurity is chronically perceived.

Originality/value

Together, these findings suggest that the hindrance appraisals of qualitative job insecurity are more likely to moderate the link between job insecurity and well-being outcomes.

Details

International Journal of Workplace Health Management, vol. 11 no. 6
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJWHM-01-2018-0008
ISSN: 1753-8351

Keywords

  • Job insecurity
  • Psychological well-being
  • Cognitive appraisals
  • Behavioral well-being

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Article
Publication date: 13 July 2010

Preventive measures for mitigating fire risks in big box retail facilities

Mohammad A. Hassanain

The purpose of this paper is to investigate a set of preventive measures required for mitigating fire risks in big box retail facilities.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate a set of preventive measures required for mitigating fire risks in big box retail facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies the potential sources of ignition and fuel in big box retail facilities. It describes the variety of hazardous situations commonly found in such facilities worldwide. The paper then endeavors to discuss the series of fire protection challenges that could be faced during fire emergencies. It also explores the challenges of evacuation and rescue in such mega store facilities.

Findings

Mega stores, distribution centers and large retail stores are amongst the most challenging occupancies from a fire protection perspective. Fires can occur in big box retail facilities at any time and from a number of causes. These facilities represent a type of occupancy that poses considerable challenges to both fixed fire suppression systems and fire departments in cases of fire emergencies. The paper also describes the responsibilities of building management staff towards their employees and the public. Facility managers should always seek proactive measures to reduce the risk of fire and fire spread in big box retail facilities. These measure include providing sufficient number and capacity of exits; clear exit access; efficient smoke detection systems; voice communication systems; and efficient automatic sprinkler systems.

Quality/value

This paper serves to increase the awareness about fire and its effects in mega store facilities. The paper provides practical value to property directors and facility managers responsible for the daily operations of mega store facilities and for surveyors inspecting such properties.

Details

Structural Survey, vol. 28 no. 3
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/02630801011058915
ISSN: 0263-080X

Keywords

  • Retailers
  • Fire
  • Hazards
  • Risk management
  • Shop design

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Article
Publication date: 14 December 2020

An assessment of fire safety measures in healthcare facilities in Nigeria

Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Aigbavboa, Solomon Oisasoje Ayo-Odifiri and Nuzaihan Aras Agus Salim

The occurrence of fire accidents in hospital buildings has become a serious challenge and more serious in developing nations. The purpose of this paper intends to assess…

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Abstract

Purpose

The occurrence of fire accidents in hospital buildings has become a serious challenge and more serious in developing nations. The purpose of this paper intends to assess fire safety measures in Nigerian hospital facilities. The significance of this study is to ensure that the design and construction of hospital facilities enhance the safety of users and properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected via a case study and questionnaire survey and administered to the facility users. The study survey is to assess the respondents' perception of fire safety measures in hospital facilities and suggest possible policy measures that will be employed to enhance safety.

Findings

This paper found that 91% of the respondents have awareness of fire safety measures in hospital facilities. Electrical faults and combustible materials were identified as the frequent causes of fire occurrences in hospital facilities. This can be averted where flammable materials and electrical appliances are correctly installed, and safety rules enforced. Findings show that safety rules are lax in public than standard private hospitals.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited to fire safety measures in Nigerian healthcare facilities. Future research is needed to evaluate the level of compliance from design, construction and post-construction of precautionary fire safety measures in hospital facilities in Nigeria.

Practical implications

This paper recommended that designers and hospital administrators should improve on fire safety measures via the development of fire safety management plan and education. Thus, enforcement of fire safety measures in hospital facilities as specified in building codes should be implemented and monitored during and after the design of the hospital buildings. Findings provide valuable lessons on how to improve the fire safety measures in healthcare facilities across the states and other developing countries with similar healthcare situations.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that the stakeholders, especially government agencies concern with approval and enforcement of fire safety measures in healthcare facilities need to reawaken to her responsibility because of the lax implementation across the states.

Details

Property Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/PM-07-2020-0043
ISSN: 0263-7472

Keywords

  • Construction experts
  • Design team
  • Fire protection
  • Hospital facilities
  • Nigeria

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Article
Publication date: 21 October 2013

Human behaviour in fire: should the fire service stop telling and start listening?

David Wales and Owain Frank Thompson

The purpose of this paper is to outline the work being carried out by Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) to build a comprehensive database of the behaviours and…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the work being carried out by Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) to build a comprehensive database of the behaviours and motivations of those experiencing accidental fires occurring in dwellings. It is an approach that is predicated upon the desire to listen to and learn from those who actually experience such fires.

Design/methodology/approach

The work started with a qualitative pilot study, comprising ten semi-structured, in-depth interviews with those who experienced injuries in accidental dwelling fires (ADFs). This informed the design of the subsequent post-ADF questionnaire survey.

Findings

The paper demonstrated a strong desire among interviewees to tackle the fire themselves. The paper highlights a number of risk factors and also found that decisions to call the fire service were often secondary to other aims and concerns, including issues related to shame and guilt.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size means that the data have no statistical validity.

Practical implications

The project offers a variety of benefits to all aspects of the UK fire service. The work's success and national implications have generated a large amount of interest in the sector, resulting KFRS working with other fire and rescue services in South East England to adopt it as a regional project.

Originality/value

The work marks, arguably, the first attempt in almost 30 years to develop a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour in dwelling fires.

Details

International Journal of Emergency Services, vol. 2 no. 2
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJES-07-2012-0030
ISSN: 2047-0894

Keywords

  • Qualitative
  • Accidental dwelling fires
  • Human behaviour
  • Kent Fire and Rescue Service

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Book part
Publication date: 30 December 2013

Sri Lanka: Ethnic conflict and the conflict management process

Prashant Amrutkar

This chapter presents a critique of the so-called peace process through military action within the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict. There is a need to study this problem from…

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Abstract

This chapter presents a critique of the so-called peace process through military action within the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict. There is a need to study this problem from the psychological, developmental, and humanitarian point of view. This chapter analyses the deep-rooted seeds of the problem, its historical background, its various domestic and international angles and perceptions, and the international angles as well as regional implications of the Sri Lankan Tamil insurgency. The nature of the problem, the effect of ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka on regional security, and the militarily remedization of the problem by Sri Lankan government and its result are focused on here.

Finally, the study identifies the contemporary role of diaspora communities as a severe hindrance to a lasting peace in the country. Thus, the analysis concludes that lasting peace in the island is possible only through the promotion of a genuine liberal democracy, from both within and without. Suggestions for future peace, stability, and development have been put forward.

Details

Cooperation for a Peaceful and Sustainable World Part 2
Type: Book
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/S1572-8323(2013)00020.2014
ISBN: 978-1-78190-655-2

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Case study
Publication date: 20 January 2017

Kindle Fire: Amazon's Heated Battle for the Tablet Market

Mohanbir Sawhney, Joseph R. Owens and Pallavi Goodman

This case is intended to illustrate to readers the challenges faced in 2011–2013 by Amazon's CEO, Jeff Bezos, as he guided his company into the exploding tablet market…

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Abstract

This case is intended to illustrate to readers the challenges faced in 2011–2013 by Amazon's CEO, Jeff Bezos, as he guided his company into the exploding tablet market. Faced with the tough decision between focusing on the e-reader market—which Amazon had come to dominate with its Kindle product line—and making a foray into tablets—for which it had no expertise—Bezos chose the latter. Amazon sought to combine platform assets to create an end-to-end experience that would let users find a “sweet spot” in the mix of features and services. This strategy involved critical decisions such as selecting a customer segment to target and a positioning for the new product, dubbed the Kindle Fire, as the tablet market rapidly evolved. The Kindle Fire was designed to put the full Amazon experience right into the laps of customers, and Bezos was betting that his customers would see the Kindle Fire as the physical manifestation of all things Amazon. To achieve this, Amazon was willing to heavily subsidize the Kindle Fire hardware device. The key assumption was that the superior end-to-end experience Amazon had carefully created would lead to incremental purchases of content as well as physical products and services, and the margins thus gained would outweigh the hardware subsidy.

  • Position and define target segments for a new product relative to competition as well as to a company's own products

  • Articulate a competitor's strategy and how to compete against an incumbent with a disruptive business model and a differentiated position

  • Discuss selling an experience (as opposed to a product or device) and how to create a differentiated service experience

  • Determine pricing, analyze business model, and calculate revenue/profit for a technology product

Position and define target segments for a new product relative to competition as well as to a company's own products

Articulate a competitor's strategy and how to compete against an incumbent with a disruptive business model and a differentiated position

Discuss selling an experience (as opposed to a product or device) and how to create a differentiated service experience

Determine pricing, analyze business model, and calculate revenue/profit for a technology product

Details

Kellogg School of Management Cases, vol. no.
Type: Case Study
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/case.kellogg.2016.000175
ISSN: 2474-6568
Published by: Kellogg School of Management

Keywords

  • Product Management
  • E-commerce
  • Marketing
  • Marketing strategy
  • Technology management

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