Evaluation of a participatory ergonomics training program in construction

Background: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) are one of the leading injuries in construction workers with 34.7% of all nonfatal injuries and illnesses with days away from work being strains and sprains. Participatory ergonomics (PE) training is a supported intervention involving the end users in implementing solutions to reduce work injury risk factors. When evaluated by assessing changes in symptoms or injuries, PE has shown mixed results. Studies in construction safety, especially PE, lack adequate theoretical support, program description, and articulation of mediating pathways between program impacts and long-term effects of the program. Evaluation of program implementation and impact using a logic model as a guide is necessary to interpret the long term outcome and determine the efficacy of PE in construction.;Objective: This dissertation 1) develops an evaluation framework (e.g. logic model) to illustrate the implementation of a PE training program in three construction trades, 2) evaluates the extent to which a PE program was delivered as intended among groups of construction workers, and 3) analyzes the efficacy of the program. This dissertation serves to improve the interpretation and dissemination of PE training programs to reduce the risk of WMSD in construction workers.;Methods: A logic model informed by the health belief model was used to guide the implementation of a PE program among 95 construction workers and evaluate the short term and intermediate impacts of the program for interpretation of the long term outcomes.;Results: The process evaluation indicated the program was modified from the original plan. Short term knowledge improved, workers reported taking actions, however long term symptoms and risks did not change significantly.;Conclusion: A PE program in construction made a positive impact on workers' learning and individual ergonomic actions. The logic model was a valuable tool for guiding a participatory ergonomics intervention and informing the evaluation findings. Workers attended trainings, gained knowledge, identified solutions, and changed work practices; however changes were mainly at the worker level. Small to mid-sized contractors need to partner with their workers to identify problem tasks and diffuse longer-lasting ergonomic solutions into construction.