Ergonomic best practices in masonry: regional differences, benefits, barriers, and recommendations for dissemination

Area of Science:

• Construction Safety
• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics

Background:

• The masonry trade experiences high rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
• A meeting identified potential best practices for MSD reduction and regional variations in their use.
• Understanding these regional differences is crucial for effective MSD prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To verify and understand regional differences in the adoption of best practices for reducing MSDs in masonry.
• To identify factors influencing the use of these practices among masonry contractors.
• To inform safety managers and researchers on disseminating ergonomic solutions.

Main Methods:

• A national telephone survey of 183 masonry contractors, owners, and foremen was conducted.
• The United States was divided into four regions: Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, and West Coast.
• Nine specific practices aimed at reducing MSDs in masonry were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Regional differences in the use of best practices for MSD reduction were confirmed.
• Half-weight cement bags and autoclave aerated concrete were rarely adopted.
• Lightweight block and mortar silos showed increasing adoption, but the Northeast region utilized significantly fewer best practices compared to others.

Conclusions:

• Significant regional disparities exist in the adoption of masonry best practices for MSD prevention.
• Barriers to adoption vary, necessitating targeted strategies for different regions.
• Findings offer insights for improving the dissemination of ergonomic solutions in the masonry industry.