Design of a Low Back Pain Prevention Program for Mason Tenders Based on Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Perceived Job-Related Characteristics

摘要

The study was part of a research project focused on primary prevention of low back pain among construction laborers in New York City. The objectives were to develop and implement a pilot program teaching trade instructors to incorporate ergonomics principles, ergonomic hazard recognition, and safe materials handling practices in their training curriculum. A symptom survey was conducted to describe the demographic and musculoskeletal injury characteristics of the mason tenders and job-related factors contributing to the musculoskeletal symptoms. The return rate was 70% and results revealed 65% of the mason tenders experienced low back pain, 35% of them were absent from work and 45% of them visited a physician due to the conditions. Bending or twisting the back; working in awkward or the same position for long periods, away from the body or near physical limits, and working while in pain were primary factors mason tenders perceived contributing to back pain. The results were incorporated in the design of a train-the-trainer program.