Evaluation of a Participatory Ergonomics Program in Construction

Background and Objectives: Rates of musculoskeletal injuries among workers in construction remain high. Participatory ergonomics (PE) is an approach to engage workers and employers in identifying and implementing injury prevention solutions. When evaluated by decreased symptoms or injuries, PE has shown mixed results. Better evaluation of PE efficacy requires measurement of short-term and intermediate impacts. In this presentation we will: 1) describe this PE study implemented in groups of construction workers; 2) present short-term (learning), intermediate (actions), and long-term results; and 3) discuss multi-level factors for improving the implementation and dissemination of PE based on our identified barriers to implementation in construction.

Methods: We recruited 96 workers from seven contractors in three trades. We trained workers in ergonomic problem identification and implementation of task-specific solutions. We evaluated our program using mixed methods including data from surveys and researcher observations.

Results: Eighty-six workers completed the program. Preliminary results indicate 65.5% of workers felt they knew how to use ergonomics in their job. Out of 77 who reported changes due to the program, 89.6% changed work methods, tools/equipment or both. We detected trends in increased self-reported risk factors and decreased symptoms from baseline to follow-up. Further analysis will determine the extent of ergonomic changes.

Conclusions: Workers attended training, gained knowledge, identified solutions, and changed methods and tools; however long-term impact was limited. PE programs with high contractor support and a multilevel approach targeting high duration, frequent exposures may result in higher impact on symptoms and risks.