A Study On the Safety and Ergonomics for Building Construction Works in Kirinyaga University

Abstract

A large number of construction works continue every day in Kirinyaga University as an emerging young university where labor is plentiful. Ergonomics for construction works in Kirinyaga University was carried out during February 2017 to April 2017 to observe the present status of practicing safety regulations and ergonomics principles by constructions workers. This study sought to establish relationship between construction and work related injuries, examine safety equipment used by workers and recommend solutions to any ergonomics related safety challenges that may affect construction works in Kirinyaga University. A survey involving the use of questionnaire, observation and inter- views were used as tools for investigation. Data collected was subjected to descriptive statistics. Those responding to the questionnaire had an average age of 33 years, 30% workers fall in the age range 25-30 years, worked an average of 40 hours in a week, and had an average of 3 years work experience in construction industry. Results showed that back pain back injuries constitute 20% of total work related musculoskeletal symptom due to manual lifting of heavy materials followed by body injuries representing 10%. The study revealed that,5% of workers visited the hospital for their musculoskeletal injuries and 2%reported visiting Hospitals for body injuries a. Long hours standing and working in the same position was identified as the leading causes of work-related musculoskeletal symptoms. A majority of workers did not wear protective/ safety equipment hence exposing them to construction related injuries. We recommended, among others, establishment of policies to govern ergonomics and safety issues in construction and provision of safety equipment to workers to minimize work related injuries.

Key words— Constructions, Ergonomics, Injuries, Equipment, Safety