Facilitators and barriers to the adoption of ergonomic solutions in construction

Abstract

Background Rates of musculoskeletal disorders in construction remain high. Few studies have described barriers and facilitators to the use of available ergonomic solutions. This paper describes these barriers and facilitators and their relationship to the level of adoption. Methods Three analysts rated 16 proposed ergonomic solutions from a participatory ergonomics study and assessed the level of adoption, six adoption characteristics, and identified the category of adoption from a theoretical model. Results Twelve solutions were always or intermittently used and were rated positively for characteristics of relative advantage, compatibility with existing work processes, and trialability. Locus of control (worker vs. contractor) was not related to adoption. Simple solutions faced fewer barriers to adoption than those rated as complex. Conclusions Specific adoption characteristics can help predict the use of new ergonomic solutions in construction. Adoption of complex solutions must involve multiple stakeholders, more time, and shifts in culture or work systems.

IoT-based safety monitoring from the perspective of construction site workers

“…In addition to non-fatal and fatal accidents at the construction work site (Winge & Albrechtsen, 2018) musculoskeletal disorders are decreasing workers' ability to work effectively (Wang et al, 2017). The adoption of complex ergonomic solutions at construction sites is not simple and requires time and the involvement of a wide range of different stakeholders (Dale et al, 2017). Safety and wellbeing at work is a global priority.…”

Evaluation of the effects of two alternative participatory ergonomics intervention strategies for construction companies

“…Barriers for 'the majorities' are lack of information, availability and test possibilities (Jensen and Kofoed 2002;Karsh, Newenhouse, and Chapman 2013). In addition, differences occur in facilitators and barriers between simple and complex ergonomics tools (Dale et al 2017). The use of complex tools might require more training and a shift in culture, but also more time and money on the part of the employers.…”

Good work design: strategies to embed human-centred design in organisations

“…A decision-making process is creative and some design ideas will be more realistic, useful, and acceptable than others (Hamilton, 2012). Dale et al (2017) describe features of decision making in ergonomics that may influence the uptake of an idea: relative advantage, usability, compatibility, complexity, trialability (the ease of trialling iterative design ideas), and observability (which refers to transparency and rapidly impactful positive change owing to the control). Simple solutions may require less culture change and face fewer barriers to adoption than those that are more complex (Dale et al, 2017;Norman, 2013;Weinstein et al, 2013).…”

“…In a study of participatory ergonomics and design solutions to address construction activity, Dale et al (2017) found a strong adoption of strategies that provided for relative advantage, compatibility with existing work practice, and trialability. Relative advantage refers to the level of likely improvement with solution adoption; e.g.…”

“…It was a simple strategy, easy to procure, and readily available for trial. Consequently, it met the criteria for features that support decision making and uptake of a solution in occupational ergonomics (Dale et al, 2017).…”