Analysis of working postures in hammering tasks on building construction sites using the computerized OWAS method

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Ergonomics
• Construction Industry Studies

Background:

• Hammering tasks in construction are associated with high risks of musculoskeletal disorders.
• Previous research has identified the need for better ergonomic assessments in dynamic manual labor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify problematic working postures during hammering tasks at construction sites.
• To develop recommendations for improving working methods and the workplace environment.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the computerized Ovako Working Posture Analyzing System (OWAS) in assessing dynamic tasks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the computerized Ovako Working Posture Analyzing System (OWAS) for postural analysis.
• Observed 18 construction workers performing various hammering tasks over two months.
• Analyzed 593 different postures across tasks like roof joisting and concrete form preparation.

Main Results:

• Roof joisting (12.4%) and concrete form preparation (8.6%) showed the highest frequency of poor working postures.
• 7.8% of all analyzed postures were classified into OWAS categories III or IV, requiring immediate or prompt correction.
• The computerized OWAS method proved effective in reducing postural load and efficiently analyzing dynamic hammering tasks.

Conclusions:

• Specific hammering tasks, particularly roof joisting, present significant ergonomic risks.
• The computerized OWAS method is a valuable tool for assessing and mitigating postural risks in construction.
• Implementing recommended changes to working methods and workplaces is crucial for worker safety.