Investigating regulatory decoupling in ISO 9001 quality systems in UK and Irish construction using structural equation modelling

Purpose – This study investigates regulatory decoupling (where practice “on the ground” diverges from regulation), in implementation of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) in the UK and Irish construction sectors, exploring the gap between formal accreditation and actual on-site practices. Design/methodology/approach – Building on previous research, a theory-driven questionnaire was developed and distributed to construction professionals from ISO 9001-certified firms. Using the 146 valid survey responses, structural equation modelling (SEM) was applied to test relationships among factors influencing QMS implementation. Findings – The SEM results provide robust empirical support for the proposed model. Positive implementation is driven by the respondents' understanding of their QMS, senior management support and a workplace culture of trust, individual autonomy and “buy in” to the system. Negative influences include a culture of “massaging” or misleading in documentation and social contagion of the same, resistance to quality oversight and dislike of challenge. Regulatory decoupling is shown to result from systemic tensions, not just individual actions. Practical implications – The findings highlight the need for inclusive leadership, resource allocation and trusting skilled operatives with autonomy and an opportunity for participative system design to bridge the gap between QMS policy and practice. Originality/value – This research is the first to apply SEM to the theory of regulatory decoupling in the context of ISO 9001 QMS implementation in construction. The significance of this research lies in its operationalisation and empirical validation of a novel, theory-driven model illustrating how cultural, organisational and behavioural dynamics jointly influence QMS outcomes, extending current understanding of compliance beyond technical execution.