Management systems for sustainable construction: integrating environmental, quality and safety management systems

The management systems implemented by contractors are paramount to encouraging sustainable construction. Evolving from developments in the manufacturing industries, a number of forward-looking contracting organisations are at the forefront of establishing Integrated Management Systems (IMS) within the UK. IMS can provide a framework for sustainable construction through the effective management of quality, safety and, in particular, environmental impact. Based upon empirical and primary research data, this paper examines the concept and principles of IMS, its potential application and contribution to sustainable construction and the issues that it raises for the future management of the construction processes. Findings indicate that IMS is being championed by the major UK certification bodies and is being pursued by a number of prominent contractors who perceive IMS as the next logical and positive progression in management systems development within construction. These UK developments are likely, in the future, to impact greatly on construction management practices worldwide.