Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries among operating engineers: A review and guidelines for improvement.

Chris L. Zimmermann; Thomas M. Cook; John C. Rosecrance

doi:10.1080/1047322X.1997.10390031

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Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries among operating engineers: A review and guidelines for improvement.

Journal article

Open access

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Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries among operating engineers: A review and guidelines for improvement.

Chris L. Zimmermann, Thomas M. Cook and John C. Rosecrance

Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Vol.12(7), pp.480-484

1997

DOI: 10.1080/1047322X.1997.10390031

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Published (Version of record)Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 12:7 (1997) pp.480-484.

Abstract

Among construction workers, operating engineers encounter job factors considerably different from those of their counterparts in other construction trades. While many professionals in the construction trades are faced with risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMD) such as heavy lifting, carrying, power tool use, and forceful repeated motions, operating engineers are confronted with more subtle stressors. The sustained and awkward postures they are required to maintain, the controls they are required to operate, and the vibrating environments in which they work are major risk factors for WMDs among operating engineers. This article reviews the current literature and recommendations for improvement. Considering symptom and disability prevalence rates along with biomechanical and physiological considerations, four primary recommendations to reduce WMDs are indicated. Equipment designs should minimize the magnitude and frequency of vibration reaching the operator. Placement of equipment controls within the cab should minimize reach distance and trunk flexion and rotation. Cab designs should provide maximum operator visibility from an upright seated posture, decreasing postural loads associated with trunk and neck flexion. Operators should be encouraged and allowed to take regular breaks during the workday, minimizing the effects of a sustained sitting posture. These modifications in equipment and work practices should reduce the rates of musculoskeletal disorders associated with the operating engineer's profession and work environment.

Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene

construction

operating engineers

work-related musculoskeletal disorders

WMD

construction equipment design

Details

Title: Subtitle: Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms and injuries among operating engineers: A review and guidelines for improvement.
Creators: Chris L. Zimmermann - University of Iowa
Thomas M. Cook - University of Iowa
John C. Rosecrance - University of Iowa
Resource Type: Journal article
Publication Details: Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Vol.12(7), pp.480-484
DOI: 10.1080/1047322X.1997.10390031
ISSN: 1047-322x
Copyright: Copyright 1997. ACGIH®, Cincinnati, OH. Reprinted with permission.
Grant note: This project was supported by a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health cooperative agreement with the Center to Protect Workers’ Rights, Washington, DC.
Language: English
Date published: 1997
Academic Unit: Occupational and Environmental Health; International Programs; Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science; Injury Prevention Research Center
Record Identifier: 9983557314002771

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