Floor & Ground Level Work Solutions

Materials- changes to the materials used for floor- and ground-level work may result in shorter work time and less labor-intensive installation. However, this type of solution requires working with the engineer, building owner, or general contractor and is often not an employee-level decision.

Process- changes to the work process may make the work safer. Decide whether the work being done at floor-level has to be done that way. Is the floor being used as a substitute work bench to assemble materials, mix compound, or perform equipment adjustments? If so, then use a table and sawhorses to raise the work surface to waist height. This simple change can greatly reduce the amount of stooping or kneeling required. Also, adjustable scaffolding can hold work materials at waist level near to the area where the work is being done, such as when laying brick or concrete blocks.

Tools- extensions are often available for tools that can allow workers to complete tasks while remaining standing. If cost and site conditions do not restrict the use of such tools, then this solution is an excellent way to reduce repeated stooping and bending. These tools include:

• Auto-feed screw guns with extensions for installing subflooring, decking, and other floor-level installations.
• Powder-actuated tools (PAT) with stand-up handles for attaching lumber to masonry and making steel-to-steel connections.
• Motorized screeds for smoothing and consolidating concrete surfaces. Care must be taken when using a motorized screed, as they can be awkward to lift and carry. There must also be protection provided to workers from the vibration of the equipment.
• Rebar-tying tools with extensions so that tying off rebar can be done while standing.
• Portable or motorized creepers with chest supports or knee supports and padding.

Work Rules- employers can require employees to take mandatory rest breaks after working a set amount of time at floor level. They can also set rules about work materials that must be stored off the ground and require the use of knee pads or other padding to protect knee joints.

When management and employees work together, the best solutions to reduce floor- and ground-level ergonomic hazards can be identified and put into practice.

To learn more about Construction Ergonomics visit our Construction Ergonomics Online Training web page.