Measures for Curbing Unethical Practices among Construction Industry Professionals: Quantity Surveyors’ Perspective

Abstract

Unethical practices have been a reoccurring menace in the construction industry globally, with its negative impact reported in existing studies. While several studies have explored issues touching on ethics, ethics compliance and unethical practices within the construction industry, the problems persist especially in developing countries. It is based on this notion that this study assessed the possible measures that could help curb unethical practices in the construction industry with specific reference to Quantity Surveyors (QS). The study adopted a quantitative approach with structured questionnaires used to garner information from registered QS in Nigeria. Data analysis was done using relevant descriptive and multivariate analysis. The reliability of the instrument used was also tested using Cronbach alpha test. The findings revealed that while QS are no strangers to unethical practices, most cases are not reported to the appropriate authorities. The most prevalent of these practices are payment-related and contract-related. To curb these practices, random inspections and development of ethical compliance, ensuring a good reporting and punishment system, and increase ethical awareness through QS organised programmes are needed. The findings of this study would assist the professional bodies and organisations within the industry to effectively enforce ethical conduct among their members and staff.

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“…To conduct this test, past studies have favoured using a large sample size (above 150) (Norris and Lecavalier, 2010;Tabachnick and Fidell, 2013). However, recent studies have emerged with fewer samples using the communalities derived as a basis for justification (Paul et al, 2021). It has been noted that as long as a communality of 0.5 and above is attained, researchers need not emphasise the size of the sample (Field, 2009;Preacher and MacCallum, 2002;Tabachnick and Fidell, 2013).…”

“…To conduct this test, past studies have favoured using a large sample size (above 150) (Norris and Lecavalier, 2010; Tabachnick and Fidell, 2013). However, recent studies have emerged with fewer samples using the communalities derived as a basis for justification (Paul et al. , 2021).…”

Evaluation of Effects of Unethical Practices on Cost and Time Performance of Construction Projects in Tertiary Institutions in Edo State, Nigeria

“…Ethics is momentous in construction industry at ensuring product quality and aiding growth. According to Paul (2020), ethics influences quality of construction projects, enhances world-wide success of construction industry, enables optimal performance within the industry and it generates enduring economic returns.…”

“…All extant studies on unethical practices within the construction industry reported its negative impact on the industry (Paul, 2020). Dantong et al, (2017) revealed that unethical professional practices make construction projects in Nigeria vulnerable to delays, cost overruns and frequent maintenance work.…”

Study on effect of anti-bribery management system to the quality of authority organization operational management in construction industry

“…A good quality of works and ethical behaviours in handling the infrastructure projects are very important aspects within the construction phases. Extent studies have also assessed the importance of professional ethics not just to the professionals but majorly, the entire construction industry [1]. It is critical for an individual within the authorities' organization such as workers in engineering division, architects' division, human resource division, finance division and other divisions related with infrastructure projects to oppose any misconduct or unprofessional ethics when handling their respective works.…”