Vol. 12, Special Issue 9 (2023)

Author(s):
Neha Arya and Promila Sharma

Abstract:
Construction is one of the important industries which employ a large number of people in its workforce. Job opportunities in the hilly regions are very less due to low education level, therefore, the majority of the people are involved in stone masonry work to sustain their lives and it become a second important source of income in hilly areas after agriculture. The present study was purposively conducted in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, with the objective–of assessing the ergonomic risk factors associated with this work. Methodology–A Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal based questionnaire was used for assessing pain or discomfort and a Rapid Entire Body Assessment sheet was used for assessing postural load among workers. It is basically a labour intensive job, where most of the activities are performed manually. Occupational health and safety hazards are more pronounced in manual crushing and shaping of stones operations. Results revealed that an old traditional tool (hammer) without any palm support was used in crushing and shaping activities therefore workers were in direct contact with hard surfaces and complained about pain in the palm portion. While performing these activities workers were adopting awkward postures for long periods of time and were at risk of injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. REBA scores indicated that in both activities the higher MSD risk was noticed in the lower back, wrist/hands and knees. It was also found that workers were not using and personal protective equipment while working and at risk of injuries. A significant association was found between musculoskeletal disorder and body regions especially, in the lower back, wrist and knees in both activities.