Vulnerability governance of intelligent construction sites safety system: evidence from SEM and fsQCA within the DTOE framework

Purpose This study aims to identify the driving factors and multiple configuration paths of the vulnerability governance of the intelligent construction site safety system (ICSS) and to enhance the ICSS vulnerability governance ability. Based on the traditional Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, a Device-Technology-Organization-Environment (DTOE) framework was developed to incorporate the dimension of “intelligent devices,” highlighting their synergistic effects on the vulnerability governance of ICSS. Design/methodology/approach Based on in-depth interviews with 21 senior experts and 334 valid questionnaire responses, this study adopts a mixed-methods approach combining structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). SEM is used to reveal the mechanisms by which driving factors influence the vulnerability governance of ICSS, while fsQCA identifies configuration paths for achieving high-level vulnerability governance. The combination of SEM and fsQCA considers both single-factor and multivariate configuration analysis, enhancing the depth of interpretation of the results and achieving methodological complementarity. Findings The technological level, organizational management ability, intelligent device status, and environmental factors all have a significant impact on vulnerability governance. Among them, organizational management ability plays a mediating role in the governance process, while environmental factors moderate effects across contexts. The fsQCA results further revealed four configuration paths for achieving high-level vulnerability governance: (1) Dual-driving paths of internal and external environments; (2) Technology-environment synergy path; (3) Organization-environment synergy path; (4) The integrated driving path of device-technology-organization-environment. They highlight the diverse collaborative logic of vulnerability governance in ICSS. Originality/value This study introduces the dimension of “intelligent devices” and proposes a DTOE analysis framework, thereby expanding the application boundaries of TOE theory in vulnerability research. The research results reveal the structural effects and configuration logic of vulnerability governance in ICSS, providing multi-level decision-making references for project practice, the development of intelligent construction management platforms, and policy formulation. They are essential for developing countries and emerging markets for intelligent construction sites.