The Role of Quality and Safety Management in the Transformations of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Abstract
This study aims to examine the impact of quality management and safety management practices on industrial transformation within the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0). A quantitative survey design was applied among managers of Daqiq Farayand Khavarmiane Company, representing industrial organizations transitioning to Industry 4.0. A standard questionnaire was used to measure key variables related to quality and safety management. Its content validity was verified by expert evaluation using CVR and CVI indices, and reliability was confirmed with Cronbach’s alpha values above 0.80. Data were collected through simple random sampling, resulting in 380 valid responses. The normality of data was checked via the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, and due to non-normal distribution, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed for hypothesis testing and path analysis using SmartPLS software. Model evaluation indicated strong convergent validity with factor loadings above 0.60 and significant path coefficients between quality management, safety management, and industrial transformation. All hypothesized relationships were confirmed as positive and statistically significant at the 95% confidence level, with t-values exceeding 1.96. The results demonstrated that enhanced quality and proactive safety systems strongly influence successful industrial process transformation and adaptation to Industry 4.0 technologies. The findings highlight the pivotal role of integrated quality and safety management in supporting industrial digital transformation during the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and smart monitoring systems, organizations can achieve continuous improvement, strengthen risk management, and accelerate innovation. Developing digital competencies and fostering a strong culture of safety and quality are essential for competitive sustainability in rapidly evolving technological environments.