Low back pain mitigation method in construction industry

Abstract

Workers in construction industry are potentially exposed to injuries and illnesses, including musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the workplace. The research is to study ergonomic risk factors (ERFs) that caused low back pain (LBP) and to proposed mitigation method to minimize low back pain (LBP). The ergonomic risk factors (ERFs) that caused low back pain (LBP) and ergonomic program were established from literature review and interviewing Safety Health Officer, Project Manager and Engineer. The questionnaire were prepared and distributed to Safety Health Officer, Project Manager and Engineer on construction company in Johor Bahru. The feedbacks from questionnaire were analyzed using HIRARC. The results shown that static posture, repetition and excessive force are medium risk factors. Hazards information and reporting, training on MSDs and ergonomic and management leadership and employee participation are important. To reduce the ergonomic risk factors (ERFs) that caused low back pain (LBP), management involvement is important.