Ergonomics Training Program Available for Construction Workers

CPWR has released a new Best Built Plans ergonomics training program for construction workers, the first part of a two-part comprehensive training program focused on preventing back, shoulder and other types of soft tissue injuries. These injuries, also referred to as musculoskeletal disorders, account for more than 25% of nonfatal injuries in the industry.

This worker-focused ergonomics training program provides instructors with information to raise workers’ awareness of soft tissue injuries and ways to prevent them, including safe-lifting practices and proper body mechanics. It includes both classroom and hands-on components, sections to use with new and more experienced workers and an instructor guide. The program is designed to allow an instructor to tailor it to the time and resources available and the needs of their trainees.

The second part of the program, to be released soon, is designed for employers. Both the worker and contractor programs build on the materials in the Best Built Plans program and make the important connection between how preventing injuries and pain can also reduce the need for pain medication and risk of developing an opioid use disorder.

The need for a comprehensive training program that addresses the needs of workers and their employers was first raised by the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry and the Mechanical Contractors Association of America, both of which contributed to the content and tested the training materials with their members. The program was developed in collaboration with researchers from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.