Engaging the commercial construction industry in a post-disaster context

One of the most critical problems for modern global society is vulnerability to disasters, occurring as a result of the interaction of hazards (natural and man-made) with vulnerable human populations. As the frequency and magnitude of hazards (and disasters) increase, recent reconstruction efforts have highlighted the need for a co-ordinated response among disaster actors, and an urgent requirement to tap into construction industry knowledge and capabilities to enhance disaster response and reconstruction. This research paper focuses on the engagement of the commercial construction industry in a post-disaster context, investigating the conditions that must be created in order to make direct industry involvement attractive to all stakeholders, including the company. The study found that the application of construction industry knowledge in a post-disaster situation can help to provide the necessary planning and co-ordination skills and expertise required to ensure that the reconstruction process is appropriate and sustainable for those directly affected by the disaster. Strategies are suggested that may lead to successful partnerships that are mutually beneficial. This research has the potential to impact general perceptions on construction industry involvement in the humanitarian sector, leading to significant changes in the frequency and nature of engagement and partnership.