Better environmental performance: A framework for integrated management systems (IMS)

A previous paper in this journal focused on how the integration of standards‐based management systems used by major contractors operating within the construction sector could contribute to improvements in the environmental performance of a company. However, it was seen that the lack of a recognised management system framework to guide organisations and their operations was proving inhibitive to success. This paper aims to address that shortcoming, presenting a workable and useful framework for configuring integrated management systems (IMSs) targeted at delivering better environmental performance. It aims to report on a government‐funded research project examining the developments in and applications of IMSs applied to the environment, quality and safety of construction projects in the UK.

The research project used a triangulated approach collating qualitative and quantitative data acquired by the multiple collection methods of questionnaire survey, structured and semi‐structured interviews and case studies. The qualitative approach involved the development of theory from data, or grounded theory, and evaluation of data, or analytic induction, while the quantitative approach used data‐sampling methods and database coding and analysis.

The findings show that a number of prominent UK principal contracting organisations have introduced integrated standards‐based systems for managing a construction project's environment, quality and safety. Notwithstanding, problems have readily been encountered and these appear to have occurred predominantly from a lack of an effective management system framework within which corporate organisation and project operations are arranged within the context of their business environment. The establishment of a robust framework is highlighted as being fundamental and essential to ensuring better environmental performance.

The research examines environmental performance within the project environment of the construction industry. The findings add to the current body of knowledge and will be of value to contractors seeking to satisfy the environmental requirements of their business through an effective management approach. Moreover, the research has wider value through transferable applications and experiences for other industry sectors.