Institutional-Repository, University of Moratuwa
Welcome to the University of Moratuwa Digital Repository, which houses postgraduate theses and dissertations, research articles presented at conferences by faculties and departments, university-published journal articles and research publications authored by academic staff. This online repository stores, preserves and distributes the University's scholarly work. This service allows University members to share their research with a larger audience.
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Recent Submissions
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Safety risk of industrial liquefied petroleum gas installations of the hotel segment in Sri Lanka
(Facilities Management Research Unit (FaMRU), 2025) Basnayake, JK; De Silva, N; De Silva, N; Sridarran, P
The increasing use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in homes and businesses is attributed to its effectiveness, affordability, and eco-friendliness compared to other fuels, despite the potential fire and explosion hazards. When handling this highly flammable gas, it is crucial to implement specific control measures based on its application. Numerous incidents related to LPG are frequently reported in the industry due to issues associated with handling and technical aspects. The use of industrially liquefied petroleum gas (ILPG) in hotel kitchens has become a critical concern due to several safety incidents. This research established 88 risks causing factors under 12 main categories. Bibliometric analysis and focus group interviews were carried out to establish those factors. Further, a questionnaire survey was conducted to assess risk levels contributed by those risk factors to ILPG safety in the hotel segment in Sri Lanka. Findings show that exposed electrical parts, flammable gas contact with electrical circuits, capacity of cylinder stacking, hazardous electrical equipment’s without installation, explosionproof mechanical installations, provision of ventilation, faulty wiring, emergency procedures, compliance with the design code and availability of fire extinguishers are the most vulnerable risks related to ILPG installations in hotel segments. The findings of this research would allow safety practitioners and policymakers to provide preventive measures to enhance the safety of ILPG operations.
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Utilising automation solutions to minimise occupational safety and health issues in ports
(Facilities Management Research Unit (FaMRU), 2025) De Alwis, KSA; Soorige, SDA; Chandani, GGN; De Silva, N; Sridarran, P
This research explores the potential of utilising automation solutions to minimise Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) issues in port operations. Ports are inherently hazardous environments, with workers exposed to physical strain, machinery-related accidents, hazardous materials, and adverse weather conditions, leading to injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The integration of automation technologies is proposed as a key strategy to mitigate these risks by replacing high-risk manual tasks with robotic systems and automated processes. This study examines existing literature on the role of automation in improving workplace safety, focusing on its application in port operations. By analyzing the challenges and barriers to automation adoption, including financial constraints, infrastructural limitations, and resistance to technological change, this research aims to propose a framework for successful automation implementation to minimise OSH issues. The findings suggest that automation has the potential to significantly enhance OSH standards in ports, reducing accidents and health-related issues while improving operational efficiency. The study concludes by offering strategic recommendations to overcome barriers and integrate automation for a safer, more efficient port environment.
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Bird nesting and droppings in high-rise buildings : a literature review
(Facilities Management Research Unit (FaMRU), 2025) Dissanayaka, DMKS; Rajini, PAD; Samarakoon, WKURMKPK; De Silva, N; Sridarran, P
Bird nesting and droppings create substantial barriers to the operations and maintenance of high-rise buildings in urban areas, consequently creating numerous issues for buildings and their stakeholders. Therefore, it is crucial to properly investigate this significant problem and provide robust solutions. As an initial step, a comprehensive literature review on the research domain was conducted to explore the concerns of bird nesting and droppings in high-rise buildings, employing content analysis as the analysis method. Findings revealed that numerous factors affect bird nesting and droppings, which can cause impacts on building elements, health and safety of building stakeholders, aesthetic aspects of the building, and financial status of the business carried out in the building. According to the findings, the strategies that are currently practised to manage these issues include integrated pest management, habitat modification, physical and bio-acoustic deterrents, chemical repellents and technological solutions. The findings of this comprehensive literature review establish a strong foundation to enhance the field of facilities management in urban high-rise structures by providing essential knowledge on this long-standing issue. In addition, this study creates a basis for future research to identify more effective prevention methods and improved facility planning, design, and management practices.
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Adaptation of automated demand response (ADR) technology to reduce peak energy demand in Sri Lankan commercial buildings
(Facilities Management Research Unit (FaMRU), 2025) Dissanayake, WWK; Madhusanka, N; Natasha, KADM; Gamage, MGINM; De Silva, N; Sridarran, P
Automated Demand Response (ADR) technology could potentially be used to lower peak energy use in commercial buildings in Sri Lanka. By assessing the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of ADR in the local context, the study aims to fill the implementation gap. Using a mixed-method approach, surveys and expert interviews with stakeholders, utility providers, regulatory bodies, and energy market experts were used to acquire quantitative and qualitative data. The results show that Sri Lanka's commercial buildings increase operational expenses and increase grid instability by contributing significantly to peak energy consumption. By allowing dynamic energy consumption changes during peak hours, ADR technology offers an acceptable approach that enhances grid stability and lowers energy costs. The study found several barriers to the ADR, such as the high initial setup costs, the lack of standardized protocols, incentives, and supportive legislation. Despite these barriers, the study emphasizes how ADR might improve sustainability and energy efficiency in Sri Lanka's commercial sector. The surveys showed a mixed state of current readiness for ADR adaptation, while expert interviews offered deeper insights into the feasibility of ADR adaptation. Stakeholders are generally aware of and interested in ADR technology; however, there are still significant gaps in technical capability, financing, and regulatory support. The study concludes with a three-year roadmap for implementing ADR, highlighting the significance of regulatory support, stakeholder involvement, and tech-infrastructure investment.
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Adopting concept of biophilic design to enhance healthy indoor: an experiment on moss-base for tropical building
(Facilities Management Research Unit (FaMRU), 2025) Fernando, MMDNP; De Silva, N; De Silva, N; Sridarran, P
The modern world is increasingly focused on sustainability, promoting the concept of a greener Earth. This forms the foundation for Industry 6.0, which aims to harness emerging technologies in harmony with nature, supporting sustainability principles where technology complements rather than dominates the environment. Within this framework, there is growing interest in exploring Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for buildings, aiming to enhance indoor performance. The concept of integrating nature with the built environment is referred to as Biophilic Design (BD). It encompasses a variety of strategies, among which the incorporation of plants is prominent as a widely adopted practice in industry. Numerous indoor plants, such as Spider Plant, Peace Lily, Areca Palm, Rubber Plant, Aloe Vera, Pothos (commonly known as Money Plant), and non-vascular plants, such as bryophyte species, are widely used in BD. This study specifically investigates the efficacy of integrating moss plants (a type of bryophyte species), which are abundant in tropical countries like Sri Lanka, due to their ability to improve indoor air quality (IAQ). An experimental research method was employed to assess the effectiveness of moss plants in enhancing the IAQ. The experiment conducted under a controlled environment proved that Moss plants effectively reduced particulate matter (PM10) and removed formaldehyde. These findings establish a foundation for future research to develop this concept into a commercially practical product, using moss as a readily available resource in Sri Lanka.