Author(s)

M. C. Carlos & H. J. Lucero

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate human health risks on the job tasks of heavy equipment operators and determine a significant relationship between age, work experience and average daily working hours on the frequency of reported musculoskeletal injuries of the operators. A survey was conducted among male operators of selected heavy equipment of two construction companies. 56 operators responded to the survey regarding discomfort, interference and frequency of pain experienced as a heavy equipment operator. Results showed that neck, upper and lower back and hip problems were prevalent among the operators. Furthermore, ANOVA test results showed that years of experience had a significant effect on the operator’s musculoskeletal injuries while the age of operator and daily working hours were insignificant. The interaction of age and work experience and of age and daily working hours both showed a significant effect on the frequency of reported injuries in the different parts of the body. The frequency of reported injuries was also significantly influenced by the interaction of age, years of experience and daily working hours. Current noise and illumination levels were acceptable but a hearing conservation program is recommended for hearing loss prevention. Keywords: risks to operators, construction equipment, ergonomics, musculoskeletal injuries.

Keywords

Keywords: risks to operators, construction equipment, ergonomics, musculoskeletal injuries