This study evaluates the impact of Emergency Response Systems (ERS) on infrastructure resilience in the Ashanti Region of Ghana using a quantitative research approach. A questionnaire survey was administered to 225 professionals, including facility managers, engineers, architects, building inspectors, and NADMO officials, yielding 159 valid responses. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, such as means and standard deviations, and exploratory factor analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling.The findings indicate that both technical and non-technical ERSs significantly affect infrastructure resilience, with nine technical and seven non-technical ERSs receiving high performance ratings. Economic factors, such as property damage, and socio-political issues, including low wages, were closely linked to ERS effectiveness. Key challenges identified included inadequate consideration of cultural factors, limited institutional capacity, and insufficient funding. These challenges were strongly influenced by technical (β = 0.223, p < 0.05) and non-technical (β = 0.462, p < 0.05) ERS elements. Consequently, these limitations affected economic (β = 0.195, p < 0.05) and socio-political (β = 0.325, p < 0.05) outcomes, highlighting the interdependence between ERS components and broader systemic resilience. In practice, the study emphasises the need for integrated ERS planning within broader institutional, legal, and socio-economic systems by government agencies and facility managers. It advocates for targeted technological investments, legal frameworks, community education, and long-term risk management strategies. This study presents a novel interdisciplinary framework that integrates engineering and policy perspectives. Its originality lies in the comprehensive assessment of both technical and non-technical ERS components, offering valuable insights for strengthening infrastructure resilience in developing contexts. Keywords: Emergency response, Disaster, Facilities, Infrastructure resilience, Natural hazard.

Purpose: This study investigated the adaptation of hidden emergency exits in buildings. Lives and properties are lost globally due to fewer or no emergency exits in buildings in case of a disaster. The hidden exits are an alternative means to rescue occupants if the main exit is blocked. Design/methodology/approach: Structural equation modelling was used to model the effect of system features, capability and the occupant’s motivation to adopt the hidden emergency exit. A quantitative research approach was used to find out the adaptation of a hidden emergency exit in buildings using the technology acceptance model. This study adopted a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used for selecting building occupants in the Ejisu Municipality. The population of the study comprised 31,094 dwelling units. The sample size is 379, with a response rate of 72.8%, which is 276 participants. Findings: From the findings, the design variables, which are position, identification by users and number of exits recommended and security variables, had a substantial influence on perceived ease of use. Security, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use had a significant influence on the intention to use hidden emergency exits. The hypothesis was not rejected. Practical implications: The government, through the architects’ professional body, should amend the national building regulations to incorporate the system and design features of this study. Developers should consider the system and design features in the design and construction of buildings. Originality/value: The model of the effect of system features, capabilities and occupants’ motivation to use hidden emergencies is provided. This study adds to the theories of emergency exits in buildings for safe evacuation. This study will improve safety, security and the fast evacuation of lives and properties in buildings.

This research aims to identify effective practices and strategies that improve preparedness and response capabilities by examining the factors contributing to mitigating challenges in emergency response. A comprehensive literature review was adopted to analyse current trends, case studies, and expert opinions regarding global emergency response infrastructure. The review synthesised existing research and case studies and provided insights into practical experiences and perspectives from diverse operational contexts. The research highlights 11 factors categorised into 7 key factors that contribute significantly to mitigating challenges in emergency response. These factors include community engagement and capacity building, policy and governance, technological integration, collaboration and coordination, cultural and social integration, science and knowledge integration, outsourcing, and local initiative. The study highlights the importance of addressing potential biases in interview responses and the challenge of extrapolating results across different contexts to improve global emergency response results. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, emergency management agencies, and practitioners to implement targeted interventions to strengthen mitigating factors, such as communication infrastructure and community-centered approaches. This study provides empirical evidence and practical insights on effective emergency response strategies, emphasising the importance of proactive measures and integrated approaches for enhanced preparedness and response capacities.

This study examines the occupational health challenges faced by artisans in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. The study employed a purposive sampling technique to select 425 masons through questionnaires. The data collected included workers’ mass, block weights, and health problems. The analysis identified fourteen health problems, with headaches, muscle pain, lower back pain, chronic pain, and bruises being most prevalent. Artisan weight negatively correlated with weights of 125 mm blocks (r = −0.202, p < 0.01) and 150 mm blocks (r = −0.248, p < 0.01). Additionally, artisan weight showed a negative correlation with working hours (coefficient = −0.133, p < 0.05), as did body weight with resting hours (coefficient = −0.217, p < 0.05). Higher educational qualifications correlated positively with lifting-related health issues (coefficient = 0.259, p = 0.000) and negatively with weather-related issues (coefficient = −0.154, p = 0.002). Moreover, the number of working days per week was positively correlated with lifting problems (coefficient = 0.270, p < 0.05). The study recommends redesigning block sizes to reduce physical strain. Additionally, policy measures such as reducing machinery import taxes are suggested to encourage mechanisation. The study further emphasises the need for training institutions to incorporate occupational health education into artisan training programs.

This study investigates the adoption and utilisation of hidden roof construction as an innovative alternative to traditional roofing systems in Ghana’s urban housing. Although hidden roofs offer advantages in climate adaptability, aesthetics, and cost efficiency, their adoption remains limited. Using a survey-based partial least squares structural equation modelling approach, this study identifies the factors influencing their acceptance and use. Quantitative data were collected through field surveys from residents and construction professionals within the Kumasi Metropolitan Area. A structured questionnaire was administered using purposive and convenience sampling, yielding 175 valid responses from a total of 220 distributed questionnaires (79.5% response rate). Findings indicate that hidden roof systems are valued for their climatic suitability, particularly their resistance to water leakage and reduced heat absorption, alongside their efficient drainage design. Aesthetic appeal, cultural relevance, and ease of maintenance also emerged as key determinants of positive perception and adoption. Structural analysis confirmed significant positive relationships between design concept, aesthetic and social values, sustainability, functionality, and overall acceptance. The study provides practical guidance for architects, engineers, developers, and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable, user-centred roof design in tropical urban contexts. Findings are, however, limited to Kumasi and may not fully generalise to other Ghanaian cities.