Exploring the Knowledge Domain of Risk Management in Prefabricated Construction

Abstract

Risks hinder the role of prefabricated construction (PC) in promoting construction automation. Although existing research has focused on risk management (RM) in PC, the lack of a global perspective has affected the effectiveness of RM. Accordingly, this paper adopts a scientometric analysis to review the knowledge domain of RM in PC. A total of 144 articles were selected from the Scopus database for journal citation analysis, document co-citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence analysis. The results show that since 2011, the annual publications show an overall upward trend. International Journal of Construction Management, Journal of Building Engineering, and Buildings have been cited more frequently recently. PC research, RM research, environmental sustainability research, and ergonomic research provide a solid foundation for the research on RM in PC. Existing studies are conducted from five knowledge themes, namely, Supply chain and industry, Decision and optimization, Safety and health, Environment and overheating, and Investment and cost. Further, current research content, future research needs, and RM strategies for PC practices are discussed. This study helps stimulate further promising research and enhance the effectiveness of RM in PC in practice.