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Outputs
Researchers investigating Masonry Ergonomics Solutions focused much of their work on interventions to reduce back pain and injury. Current research projects are:
Two-Mason Lift Team Technique
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Laura Welch , MD
CPWR
Silver Spring, MD
Ph: 301-578-8500 X8505
Email: lwelch@cpwr.com
Abstract:
The specific aims of this project are (1) To catalogue existing tools, materials and work practices in masonry that, if used, could reduce the risk of WMSDs among masons and mason tenders. (2) To identify how decisions are made regarding use of these tools, materials, and work practices. (3) To identify gaps in existing data on specific interventions. (4) To document effectiveness of specific interventions. (5) To disseminate best practices into the masonry industry.
Masons have a particularly high risk of developing low back pain and low back disorders; among working masons, 70% report on-going back pain. Primary risk factors for lower back injury are the weight of bricks or blocks, the frequency of lifting, the height from which the block is picked up, the height at whick the block is placed, the height of the mortar stand, the distance of the block from the worker's body, and degree and frequency of twisting involved. Research has identified changes in materials, work practices and tools that reduce masons'exposure to back, shoulder and wrist stress; for example studies measuring the compressive load on the lumbar spine show a decrease in mean and peak spinal compression at lower brick/block weights, while others document successful technical solutions to the work posture problems associated with masonry work.
This project will identify barriers to use of best practices, develop a model intervention program, pilot the program in three regions of the US , and refine the interventions based on the pilot. We will then enroll contractors into intervention and control groups and monitor use of best practices with regular audits. The audit will collect information on how effectively the interventions are being used, and that information will be used in a model to determine how much of a change in ergonomic stress has occurred. Final analysis will incorporate the cost and benefits of use of practices.
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