Investigating The Damage and Challenges of The Spread of the Corona Virus (Covid-19) on Active Projects in The Construction Industry and Providing Risk Management Solutions

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused numerous damages and challenges in the construction industry, in addition to taking a significant number of human lives and imposing heavy costs in the healthcare sector. These damages and challenges have undoubtedly resulted in extensive economic and social consequences for countries worldwide. Therefore, examining these challenges and providing appropriate solutions during times of crisis and widespread virus transmission is of utmost importance. In this research, a list of damages and challenges associated with COVID-19's spread on active construction projects was first compiled through library studies. Then, using a Likert-scale questionnaire, the opinions of project management experts in Kerman city were collected and analyzed in the SPSS software. The triangular fuzzy number comparison matrix was completed and the prioritization of indicators and sub-indicators was performed using the Super Decision software. Finally, the decision matrix was formed based on the multi-criteria TOPSIS fuzzy method using the criteria of "impact level," "importance degree," and "preventability of damage." The identified damages were ranked using the relevant questionnaire, and ultimately, risk management solutions were provided through appropriate responses. Based on the research findings, damages related to "financial challenges," "health challenges," "work and organizational challenges," and "time and scheduling challenges" had the most significant impact on active construction projects, respectively.