Due to the nature of ironwork, ironworkers are routinely exposed to a number of ergonomic hazards. The typical view of the industry has been that these hazards are unavoidable and just 'part of the job.' It has been shown repeatedly, however, that with proper tools, work site setup, and appropriate training, many of these hazards can be significantly reduced or even eliminated. In order to bring about further improvements to the construction worksite, Local 7 which represents the interest of all ironworkers in the Boston Massachusetts area has decided to take a supportive role in the conducting of research into the quantification of ergonomic exposures in ironwork. In particular, Local 7 has decided to work closely with the Construction Occupational Health Program (COHP) based at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. The COHP has just completed a health survey of all Local 7 members which focused primarily on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders. The COHP has also conducted ergonomic exposure assessment studies on all major categories of ironwork. It is hoped that when such information is made available, it will firstly alert regulatory bodies to the high exposure levels ironworkers are currently experiencing and the resultant negative impact this has had on their health. Secondly, such findings can then be used to help employers and contractors systematically identify what are the most dangerous activities within the ironwork trade. Finally, the positive role unions can play in bringing about change in an industry that has been typically resistant to change is discussed.
Learning Objectives: Articulate three important ways that unions can be supportive of reducing ergonomic hazards in a construction environment
Keywords: Ergonomics, Union
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.