Emission and cost effects of training for construction equipment operators: A field study

Purpose – It is postulated that operator-dependent factors have a substantial impact on the fuel consumption and emissions of heavy-duty construction vehicles, such that by adopting different operator practices, savings in fuel used and lower emissions and costs can be achieved. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to examine the emission and cost effects of a driver-training programme aimed at fuel efficiency and construction truck operators. Design/methodology/approach – A study was conducted on an urban excavation involving truck-and-trailer vehicles, serviced by an excavator, over an approximately 50 km trafficked urban circuit. Field observations, before and after training, and including those on a control truck operator, gave fuel usage, emissions data, speed, travel times, routing, production and operational costs. Findings – Compared to baseline values, trained drivers saw a reduction in their fuel consumption by an average of 8.5 per cent, reducing to 7.7 per cent after several weeks following training. Importantly, this occurred without increased travel time or lost production. Research limitations/implications – The number of drivers participating in the research was dictated by the nature of the project involved. A larger sample, and research involving a closer study of braking, acceleration and gearshift behaviour, would help confirm this paper’s results and provide further insight. Practical implications – The paper demonstrates quantitative benefits (reduced unit emissions and reduced unit costs) associated with construction equipment operator training. Originality/value – The research is original, being the first related to driver training of heavy-duty construction equipment and incorporating production measurements, the first involving a study of equipment operators unaware that they were being observed, and the first involving a control.