Safety Risk Assessment in Urban Public Space Using Structural Equation Modelling

Abstract

Urban public space is essential in improving population carrying capacity and economic efficiency. However, the characteristics of urban public space, such as complex structure, relatively close and large population mobility, make it prone to fire, stampedes and other safety accidents. This study aims to develop a systematic approach to identify the key factors that affect the safety risk of urban public spaces and assess the risk. Based on the literature review, 250 structured questionnaires were randomly distributed. Finally, 219 available questionnaires were collected. Based on the above data, a model of urban public space is built using SEM. The results show that construction equipment, road traffic, social governance, urban environment and behaviour significantly affect public space (from high to low). Specifically, regardless of the model or actual situation, we should pay attention to fire awareness and empirical prevention awareness. Based on previous studies, this study considers the influencing factors of urban public safety risks hierarchically and more practically and makes contributions to the field of urban safety. In addition, governments and developers can conduct valuable actual scenario analysis from this study.