Analysis of musculoskeletal pains and productivity impacts among hispanic construction workers

Abstract

This study investigated the top three musculoskeletal pains (MSP) among Hispanic construction workers in Texas and the relationship between sleep hours, age, and MSPs on worker productivity. The study recruited 228 participants from 28 small construction companies and surveyed them on their occupation, age, sleep hours, MSP, and the impact of pain on productivity. The results indicated that Foot pain was the most common among these workers, followed by Back pain and others. Additionally, the study found that the Foot was the most common body part reported with MSP among roofers, drywall installers, laborers, and helpers. The study conducted a three-factor ANOVA test to analyze if there were any significant differences in productivity based on age, number of MSPs, and sleep hours. The study found that MSPs and sleep hours significantly impacted productivity. However, there was no significant effect of age. The results also showed that the number of MSPs significantly impacted productivity, with an increase in MSPs leading to a more severe impact on productivity. Additionally, those who slept less than 6 h per day had a more severe impact on productivity than those who slept more. The study suggests that targeted interventions to improve musculoskeletal health and productivity in this population are needed and highlights the importance of considering Hispanic construction workers' specific needs when implementing safety measures and addressing pain management in the workplace.

Keywords

• Musculoskeletal pain
• Construction worker
• Productivity
• Risk assessment