Ergonomics

Ergonomics and Construction — The Smart Move

Alternate description

Sprains and strains — back, shoulder, knee and other musculoskeletal problems — are the most common injuries in the construction industry. These musculoskeletal (muscle, joint and bone) injuries make up over one-third of all lost workday injuries and produce about half of all compensation claims.

In a recent survey, 40 percent of construction workers said "working hurt" is a major problem. Working hurt reduces productivity, but continuing to work hurt can result in disabling injuries that end a career. Many Laborers retire by age 55 because they just can't do the work anymore. Many can't enjoy their retirement because of their disabilities.

Alternate description

Ergonomics means finding ways to work easier and just as productive. It means working smarter, not harder. Ergonomic changes, generally, are not expensive and can be very simple. They include:

Planning

Plan the job to minimize manual handling of heavy materials — make sure crane time is available, forklifts are used maximally and materials are delivered and stored close to where they will be used.
Store materials so they are accessible and easier to access (e.g., not above shoulder height or at ground level) but not in the way of on-going work .
Make sure walkways are even and clear so carts and dollies can be easily employed.

Tools and Equipment

Use better, ergonomically-designed tools which may be lighter weight, require less force to operate, fit the hand better and more comfortable to use.
Use carts, dollies and hoists rather than brute strength to move materials.
Use handles when carrying loads.
Use protective equipment like knee pads and shoulder pads to reduce the contact stresses of kneeling or carrying materials.

Cooperation

Get help when needed to handle heavy loads — some companies set weight limits (like 50 pounds) above which a helper is required.
Organize stretching programs before work begins each day.

Materials

Use lighter materials, such as lighter weight block.

Training

Train workers and foremen to identify ergonomic risks and common solutions.

Alternate description

Most important is setting up an "ergonomics process" — a regular time, perhaps during safety meetings, to talk about ergonomic issues, get ideas about how jobs could be improved, test suggestions and decide if they were real improvements.

Companies are looking at sprain and strain solutions because it makes business sense even in the absence of an OSHA regulation. The LHSFNA Occupational Safety and Health Division staff can help contractors and members evaluate ergonomic solutions for any worksite.

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Ergonomics and Construction — The Smart Move

Alternate description

Ergonomics means finding ways to work easier and just as productive. It means working smarter, not harder. Ergonomic changes, generally, are not expensive and can be very simple. They include:

Planning

Plan the job to minimize manual handling of heavy materials — make sure crane time is available, forklifts are used maximally and materials are delivered and stored close to where they will be used.
Store materials so they are accessible and easier to access (e.g., not above shoulder height or at ground level) but not in the way of on-going work .
Make sure walkways are even and clear so carts and dollies can be easily employed.

Tools and Equipment

Use better, ergonomically-designed tools which may be lighter weight, require less force to operate, fit the hand better and more comfortable to use.
Use carts, dollies and hoists rather than brute strength to move materials.
Use handles when carrying loads.
Use protective equipment like knee pads and shoulder pads to reduce the contact stresses of kneeling or carrying materials.

Cooperation

Get help when needed to handle heavy loads — some companies set weight limits (like 50 pounds) above which a helper is required.
Organize stretching programs before work begins each day.

Materials