Construction Ergonomics

Choose tools that are more ergonomically correct. Make sure that vibration from power tools is kept to a minimum. Choose tools that are as light as possible to reduce the force needed to use them. Choose tools that are well balanced so you are not expending extra energy trying to hold the tool in place. Make sure that the tool handle allows you to hold it comfortably. See the ErgoMatters® article on selecting tools for additional guidance.
Avoid bending at the waist for prolonged periods of time. Raise the work if possible on two sawhorses or a bench. Sit on a stable stool if you have to work at lower levels for any period of time. This helps reduce the stress on your back from bending forward and reduces the stress on your knees from squatting. Avoid storing materials at ground level.
Balance your tool belt. A tool belt that is heavier on one side than the other when worn all day can pull your back out of alignment. This forces the muscles on the unloaded side to work harder in order to compensate. Balance the tools and supplies around your tool belt. Don’t carry more than you have to and don’t wear a tool belt at all if you don’t need to. Remember to take your tool belt off during breaks to give your body a rest.
Don’t twist from the waist while working. Repeated twisting of the lower back during lifting or shoveling is a common mistake. Instead, lift your feet and turn your hips and body in that direction when shoveling, moving blocks etc.
If you have to lift, lift safely. You know the drill but here’s a reminder. Plan the lift and test the load. Get help. Use a buddy or material handling equipment. Keep the load close. Tighten your stomach muscles as you lift. Lift with your legs and keep your back straight. Lower the load the same way.
Minimize overhead work. Overhead lifting and reaching causes the back to arch. Excessive arching places stress on the small joints of the spine and places additional strain on the neck and shoulders. If you have to work overhead, get as close to your work as possible by standing on a platform or ladder. Take frequent breaks by lowering your hands and periodically bending forward with your hands on your knees to stretch out your back.
Keep your wrists and arms in neutral. Working with your wrist bent either back or forward increases the chances that you’ll develop problems. Avoid working with your arms outstretched, if possible; this puts more strain on your body. And if you develop pain, swelling, tingling, and signs of an overuse injury, take the time to rest. Trying to work through the pain will only make it worse.
Push rather than pull. Pushing loads allows you to maintain the natural curves in your back and reduces twisting. Just make sure you can see over the load! See the ErgoMatters® article on Pushing and Pulling.
Use good techniques when shoveling. Keep your feet wide apart with your front foot close to shovel. Put bottom hand low toward the blade. Shift weight to the rear foot. Keep the load close to your body. Turn your feet in the direction of the throw of your load. Try changing your grip or the direction of throw periodically, to avoid continually loading the same soft tissues.
Identify Difficult Jobs. Because of the variety of tasks in the construction industry, it is important to identify tasks that require one or more of the above risk factors. By asking why these risk factors are there, the tasks can then be retooled or the work practices modified to reduce risk. The following tasks are some that have been identified as high risk:
- Framing
- Drywall
- Masonry

Construction Ergonomics

Additional Resources

Ask Our Safety Experts!