Searching for needles in a haystack: Identifying innovations to prevent MSDs in the construction sector

This study identified innovations that could potentially reduce the risk of MSDs in the construction sector. The action research approach was based on a collaborative model of researchers working with workplace representatives. We searched for innovations being used by construction companies. From a...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Applied ergonomics 2010-07, Vol.41 (4), p.577-584
Main Authors: Kramer, Desre M., Bigelow, Philip L., Carlan, Niki, Wells, Richard P., Garritano, Enzo, Vi, Peter, Plawinski, Marek
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied physiology
Biological and medical sciences
Collaborative research
Construction
Construction sector
Cooperative Behavior
Data Collection
Diffusion of Innovation
Diffusion of innovations
Ergonomics
Ergonomics. Work place. Occupational physiology
Facility Design and Construction
Human factors research
Human physiology applied to population studies and life conditions. Human ecophysiology
Humans
Innovations
Interviews as Topic
Medical sciences
Musculoskeletal diseases
Musculoskeletal Diseases - prevention & control
Occupational Health
Prevention of musculoskeletal disorders
Work environment
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Summary:This study identified innovations that could potentially reduce the risk of MSDs in the construction sector. The action research approach was based on a collaborative model of researchers working with workplace representatives. We searched for innovations being used by construction companies. From a potential database of 125 innovations, the study focused on 20 innovations that varied in their penetration into worksites in the geographical area, represented a variety of trades, and were a cross-section of tools and work organizational processes. It examined the attributes of the innovations, and the barriers to their adoption. The analysis was based on observations of workers, surveys of workers and construction-safety consultants, and company interviews. The study found that innovations were adopted by companies for multiple advantages including productivity and quality, but not necessarily ability to reduce MSD risks, their non-complexity, and cost. The major barriers for adoption were the traditional culture of the construction sector rather than financial ones.
ISSN:0003-6870
1872-9126
DOI:10.1016/j.apergo.2009.12.003