Assessment Of Road Construction Workers’ Exposure To Ergonomic Risk Factors Using The Discomfort Survey And Postural Assessment (DiSPA) Tool

Abstract

The construction industry has been identified as one of the top industries with higher-than-average self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Construction workers develop musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to continuous exposure to ergonomic risk factors such as awkward posture, repetitive tasks, prolonged working duration, vibration, insufficient breaks or recovery, physical and mental stress, psychosocial and environmental factors. The Discomfort Survey and Postural Assessment (DiSPA) tool was developed to assess construction workers' exposure to ergonomic risk factors. The DiSPA tool combines a discomfort survey with postural assessment, assesses a range of risk factors and reviews the whole body for a comprehensive assessment. This study assesses the exposure of road construction workers to ergonomic risk factors using the DiSPA tool through self-reporting and observations. A cross-sectional assessment of 72 road construction workers, comprising labourers, masons, ironworkers, carpenters, operators, and drivers, was conducted, and quantitative data analysis was carried out. The results suggest a prevalence of MSDs among road construction workers. 83% of participants reported at least one form of musculoskeletal symptom. Carpentry was the trade with the highest musculoskeletal symptoms at 93%, and the lower back was identified as the body part most associated with MSDs. Although self-reporting is crucial for evaluating musculoskeletal symptoms, this research advocates a complementary approach to MSD assessment. An integrated method combining self-reporting and observations has been presented to achieve robust, comprehensive outcomes that enable appropriate interventions. The DiSPA tool meets the need for this complementary approach and has been applied to achieve the study aim.

Keywords: Construction Workers, Health and Well-being, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Assessment Tools, Risk Factors, DiSPA Tool, Ergonomics, Self-reporting, Observational Assessment

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1008175