Ergonomic Risk Assessment Of Construction Working Cohort In Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

The current study aimed to assess ergonomic and hand-arm vibration (HAV) risks associated with power tool and manual work on construction sites in Islamabad. The primary objective of this study was to identify awkward body positions adopted by construction workers while performing work tasks, which contain risk factors that may lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). The prevalence of risk factors in work tasks is synergistic in nature, exacerbated by the adoption of awkward body positions in manual material handling (MMH) and power tool grasping orientations, thereby increasing susceptibility to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) workforce vulnerability potential. To identify assess if the workers were working in according to low or high risk in accordance with the NOISH guidelines towards recommended weight limit and by calculating the lifting index of 20 workers observed at a construction site with three main parameters of ergonomic dysfunction, cumulative trauma disorder (CT) and repetitive tasks. Parameters collected were analysed by percentiles, giving a high, medium, or low risk factor. During the sampling of handarm vibration (HAV) risks posed by power tool operators, 15 workers were also assessed for vibration-related risks and medical barriers. We utilized the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Rapid Whole-Body Assessment (REBA) Hand Arm Vibration (HAV) Exposure Calculator and Exposure Limit Value (ELV). Assessment revealed a high overall ergonomic and hand-arm vibration (HAV) risk. 100% of workers using tools exceeded the Legal Exposure Limit Value (ELV). Risk percentiles at different jobs for three ergonomic parameters illustrating the chronic development of workrelated musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). A structured general health assessment questionnaire was administered to 30 workers to assess worker ergonomics safety and general health concerns. In addition, the general health assessment questionnaire results assessment shows that workers not using PPE for their breathing and vision during working hours, work postures resulting in varying degrees of risk. Therefore, workers should be issued with PPE and suitable work environment so that workers can work safely. Finally, the study strives to address the concerns of contractors, construction project supervisors, and foremen to consider ergonomically designed workstations compatible with the physiology of workers to minimize Ergonomic stress and using power tools with minimal ELV for hand arm vibration.