Construction workers, as a group, perform a wide range of job tasks and consequently have a wide range of exposures in the workplace that can lead to low back pain. Low back pain can be classified in one of two groups: acute or cumulative. Acute low back pain occurs as a result of a single action that injures the back. Known risk factors for acute injuries include:
There is growing concern over the costs both from lost productivity
and medical care associated with work related injuries and illnesses. The
overall rates at which compensation claims are filed in the construction
trades are high compared to the general work force in the United States.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported an overall rate of lost time
or medical compensation claims of 8.4 per 100 full time workers in 1994.
During the same year a rate of 11.8 per 100 full time workers was reported
among the construction trades (U.S. Dept of Labor, 1995) as defined by
Standard industrial Codes 15 (building construction by general contractors),
16 (other construction by general contractors), and 17 (construction by
special trade contractors) (Standard Industrial Classification Manual,
1987). The National Safety council reported for 12 surveyed states between
1985 1987 that occupational back injuries were the most frequent work related
disorder, representing 22% of all reported cases, and accounting for 32%
of all workers' compensation dollars paid in these states (Federal Register,
1992). The problem is significant and the magnitude is increasing.
Determining the cause of low back injuries in the construction industry is difficult due to the variety of work methods that can be used to perform the same task. In addition, the types of materials handling required, body postures most commonly used, and work conditions are different for each of the trades. Therefore, it is important to identify general construction tasks which require workers to undergo one or more of the high risk factors previously mentioned. The tasks can then be retooled or the work practice modified to reduce the worker’s exposure. The following tasks have been identified as high risk:
Ergonomic interventions were developed at the Ergonomics and Civil Engineering Laboratories.
This is a motorized lift for lumbar, plywood, and masonry materials. It aids in the movement of materials around a work site and in the movement of materials to an above ground work location.
ADVANTAGES
An extension attaches to the nail gun, allowing the worker to stand upright while nailing. The right-hand picture shows the improved back posture.
ADVANTAGES
This intervention is used to transport cinder blocks and bricks around the work site.
ADVANTAGES
This intervention lifts a wall from ground to shoulder height. It can be used to completely frame a wall.
ADVANTAGES
The interventions have been taken out to construction sites to examine their usability. Construction workers evaluate the prototypes and make recommendations about design changes. Site visits are also made to videotape workers’ activities in order to measure productivity.