Ninety-four framing carpenters were evaluated for subjective low back strain
related to 44 major job-tasks in addition to personal and workplace risk factors. The
point, 12-month, and lifetime prevalence of LBP was determined. Ten job-tasks
were sampled and evaluated using computer-based ergonomic assessment tools to
characterize ergonomic elements of posture, spinal loading, and risk categories.
Findings from this study suggest that carpenters do have higher prevalence
rates for LBP compared to the general population. It was also found that many
personal and workplace factors are related to perceived low back strain ratings of
specific job-tasks. Ergonomic profiles were developed on 10 representative jobtasks
confirming that postures and spinal loads do vary among job-tasks in
residential carpentry. Integrated logistic regression models were developed that
identified both job-tasks and personal factors that were related to increased risk of
LBP.
David