51. Reducing sprains and strains in construction through worker participation: a manual for managers and workers with examples from Scaffold erection
- Author
-
Koningsveld, E.A.P., Vink, P., Urlings, I.J.M., Jong, A.M. de, and NIA-TNO
- Subjects
Medezeggenschap ,Checklists ,Enquetes ,Storingsanalyse ,Risicoanalyse ,Fysieke arbeidsbelasting ,Ergonomie ,Bouwbedrijf ,Bouwindustrie ,Staal ,Nederland ,Steigers ,Preventie - Abstract
Scaffold erection work is physically demanding. This manual presents ways to make the work safer, based largely on ideas from worker. Using the methods decribed here, pilot projects were conducted in two scaffolding firms in the Netherlands. The two companies each completed six steps: (1) Organize the program; (2) Have workers list strain-and-strain hazards; (3) Get ideas and choose some solutions; (4) Test some solutions; (5) Implement the best solutions; (6) Evaluate the program. The main hazards turned out to be related to lifting, lowering, and otherwise moving materials. For all hazards, potential solutions were generated in special brainstorming sessions. Proposed solutions were inplemented in a trial. The evaluation found that several solutions are easy to implement and help reduce the physical workload. Almost all of the participating scaffold erectors said they preferred to work with the developed solutions. Management at both firms found the participatory ergonomics a positive experience and said this approach can be applied easily in other companies.
- Published
- 1998