Ergonomics for Construction Worksite Safety

This course addresses the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in construction environments by teaching the science of ergonomics—fitting the workplace to the worker rather than the reverse. Participants will learn to identify different types of MSDs and their symptoms, understand motion-based risk factors and their cumulative effects, recognize physical and psychological workplace risk factors, and implement effective control strategies including engineering controls, administrative controls, and proper lifting techniques. By applying these principles, workers and employers can reduce the incidence of sprains, strains, and chronic pain injuries that constitute the leading cause of recordable workplace injuries in construction settings.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify different types of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and recognize their signs and symptoms
• Describe motion-based risk factors and explain their cumulative effects on the body
• Identify physical work environment risk factors that contribute to ergonomic injuries
• Recognize psychological state and lifestyle risk factors that increase the likelihood of MSDs
• Apply ergonomic control strategies including engineering controls, administrative controls, and proper lifting techniques to prevent MSDs at work