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Changes in physical performance among construction workers during extended workweeks with 12-hour workdays.
Anne Faber1, Jesper Strøyer, Nis Hjortskov
1National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Park Alle 105, 2100 Kbh Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark. AFH@NRCWE.dk
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health
|October 28, 2009
Summary
Construction workers on extended workweeks showed no decline in physical performance. Endurance, reaction time, and strength remained stable despite long hours and camp accommodations, indicating resilience in this demanding occupation.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Sports Science
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Construction work often involves long hours and demanding physical exertion.
- Workers in temporary accommodations may face unique physiological challenges.
- Understanding physical performance changes is crucial for worker safety and productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess physical performance changes in construction workers during long workdays and extended workweeks.
- To evaluate the impact of temporary camp accommodation on worker physiology.
- To identify potential declines in physical capabilities under sustained occupational stress.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen construction workers with 12-hour workdays and extended workweeks were studied.
- Physical performance tests included endurance, reaction time, back flexibility, and handgrip strength.
- Sub-maximal heart rate (HR) during a bicycle test and HR monitoring during workdays were recorded.
Main Results:
- Heart rate during workdays indicated a relative workload of 25%.
- Workers exhibited faster reaction times and higher handgrip strength at the end of test days.
- Improved sub-maximal HR and better sitting balance were observed by the end of the work period.
Conclusions:
- No significant decrease in physical performance was detected after a single workday.
- Sustained work over an extended period did not lead to a decline in tested physical capabilities.
- Construction workers in temporary accommodations demonstrated resilience in physical performance under demanding conditions.
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