Does drywall installers' innovative idea reduce the ergonomic exposures of ceiling installation: A field case study. (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dasgupta, Priyadarshini Sengupta; Punnett, Laura; Moir, Susan; Kuhn, Sarah; Buchholz, Bryan
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 55(2016:Jul.)
• Page Start: 183
• Page End: 193
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: Drywall ceiling installation -- Innovative ideas -- Exposure reduction; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2016.02.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The study was conducted to assess an intervention suggested by the workers to reduce the physical or ergonomic exposures of the drywall installation task. Methods: The drywall installers were asked to brainstorm on innovative ideas that could reduce their ergonomic exposures during the drywall installation work. The workers proposed the idea of using a 'deadman' (narrow panel piece) to hold the panels to the ceiling while installing them. The researcher collected quantitative exposure data (PATH, 3DSSPP) at the baseline and intervention phases and compared the phases to find out any change in the exposure while using the 'deadman'. Results: Results showed that ergonomic exposures (such as overhead arm and awkward trunk postures and heavy load handling) were reduced at the intervention phase while using the 'deadman' with an electrically operated lift. Conclusion: The concept of the 'deadman', which was shown to help reduce musculoskeletal exposures during ceiling installation, can be used to fabricate a permanent ergonomic tool to support the ceiling drywall panel. Highlights: Focus groups with drywall installers in participatory manner. Workers' innovative idea for ceiling installation. Quantitative exposure data was collected at baseline and intervention. Exposure was reduced at the intervention.