Archana A. Mahajan

Varsha N. Karandikar

Dr. Shriram M. Sane

Abstract

Ergonomics plays vital role in improving workers' performance at work. It develops an autonomous rhythm at work by synchronizing physical, physiological and psychological aspects, which are responsible for human behavior for achieving efficiency at work. Aim of this paper is to focus attention on the ergonomic considerations in construction industry. Construction industry is physically demanding in nature. Sometimes it involves dangerous physical working conditions & high accident risks. A group of workers involved in concrete activity were considered for study. Concreting is the most common activity carried out on construction sites. Task of concreting involves distressing repetitive movements & awkward postures at work. The RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) & REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) tools were used to calculate severity of strain for various parts of the body in order to assess the area of discomfort reported by workers. RULA & REBA assessment tools were able to detect the awkward postures. Lack of awareness about safety culture had been observed during study. Use of personal protective equipments (PPE) was made mandatory to ensure safety & efficiency. Ergonomic solutions were then recommended for the awkward postures to reduce the severity of Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders [WMSDs], to increase comfort & safety level.

Keywords- Ergonomics, postural analysis, RULA, REBA.