Ergonomic Analysis and the Need for Its Integration for Planning and Assessing Construction Tasks

Abstract

The execution of daily construction tasks exposes workers to one or multiple ergonomic risk factors (awkward postures, static force, vibration, repetition, environmental risk, contact stress) and thus varying risks of developing musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, musculoskeletal disorders are common issues in construction and result in costly delays and disability claims. Though there is recent research investigating the epidemiology and causal factors for musculoskeletal injury, the construction industry has not fully embraced this as part of its safety practices. This study presents state-of-the-art ergonomic techniques, Canadian ergonomic legislation, and work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) lost-time claims (LTC) statistics to show the resultant economic (cash and productivity) losses and adverse social (occupational health and safety) impact of WRMSDs resulting from current practice and legislation. The potential short- and long-term productivity and cost merits of incorporating ergonomic assessments for construction tasks are presented.