Exploring stakeholder roles in the management of indoor environmental quality of higher education institutes in South Africa

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to explore the influential role stakeholder play in the management of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in facilities of higher education institutions (HEIs) in South Africa. By defining the indoor environmental challenges facing HEI's, an alternative redress to these challenges can be achieved through stakeholder management.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a quantitative survey approach which was informed by a post-positivism philosophical stance. The closed-ended questionnaire survey was used to gather views from academic and administrative staff who were employed in various HEIs across South Africa. The literature review revealed 13 influential stakeholder management roles which were explored. The gathered data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics that evaluated the influential role stakeholder play in the management of IEQ in HEIs.FindingsExploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed three core categories of stakeholder management roles to being community engagement and awareness, organisational commitment and objective function. These roles play an integral part of overhauling the current IEQ conditions in HEIs, which subsequently improves the quality of education through efficient academic and administrative performance.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the body of knowledge as it reveals that HEI, particularly in developing countries like South Africa, can improve their current IEQ conditions through adopting critical stakeholder management roles. Also, this study provides further theoretical background for future research in the area of stakeholder management which has been lacking in previous IEQ studies.

Effective measures to bolster the deployment of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) principles in building design: a focus on quantity surveying (QS) firms in Nigeria

“…The awards could also recognize the use of sustainable building materials, energyefficient building systems and renewable energy sources (Aigbavboa and Thwala, 2019). Financial incentives and tax breaks can also be regarded as a powerful tool for encouraging firms to prioritize IEQ principles in their building designs (Ndou et al, 2021). By offering rebates or subsidies for incorporating specific IEQ features, firms can be incentivized to invest in technologies and practices that improve IAQ, thermal comfort, acoustics, lighting and other aspects of IEQ (Nimlyat et al, 2022).…”

“…2.1 Relevance of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) to construction According to Abdulaali et al (2020) and Ma et al (2023), IEQ is a critical aspect of building design and construction as it directly affects the health, well-being and productivity of occupants. Consequently, the term "IEQ" have been used to describe the quality of the indoor environment which encompasses several variables, including external conditions such as temperature and air pollution, the materials used in building construction, building services such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and the occupants themselves and their respective activities within the building (Ndou et al, 2021). Other variables includes ergonomics and spatial layout, spectrum of paints used, biophilic design elements, occupant density and space usage, electromagnetic radiation, esthetic design and ambiance and safety and security features (Aigbavboa and Thwala, 2019;Agyekum et al, 2023).…”

“…Visual conditions encompass parameters like luminance distribution, illuminance and its uniformity, glare, light color and the presence of natural light. IAQ refers to the quality of the air inside buildings such as the presence of contaminants such as pollutants, dust and allergens as well as temperature, humidity and ventilation (Ndou et al, 2021). Poor IAQ can lead to several health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies and fatigue (Grygierek et al, 2023).…”

“…Moreover, the integration of heat recovery systems and energy-efficient ventilation strategies can enhance both IEQ and energy performance. Building services that prioritize water efficiency and distribution also contribute to IEQ by ensuring a reliable supply of clean water and efficient wastewater management (Ndou et al, 2021). Room space configuration encompasses factors such as room size, layout and occupancy density, all of which significantly affect IEQ (Kim et al, 2023).…”

“…In general, most environmental features play a considerable role in shaping the quality, comfort, satisfaction and productivity of individuals (Sadick et al, 2020;Afful et al, 2022;Oke et al, 2023). For example, inadequate lighting can cause eye strain and headaches, while poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can result in respiratory problems (Ndou et al, 2021). Thus, as the global economy shifts from manufacturing to knowledge-based industries, researchers have refined their focus on understanding individuals' satisfaction with their respective environments (Haynes et al, 2017;Zhao and Li, 2022).…”