4.3.1. Postural and ergonomics risk factors
Cleaning is physically demanding and labour intensive work. Studies on cleaning all acknowledge the
significant physical risks associated with cleaning work [7] [50] [51]. Most cleaners have to perform
different types of tasks during one single working day. Although this can imply that there is a high
variety of tasks and postures, which are only maintained during shorter periods, still, these postures are
frequently and repetitively adopted. Cleaning tasks have been identified as strenuous and demanding
for the musculoskeletal and cardio-respiratory systems [50]. According to Woods and Buckle [20], the
main ergonomic risk factor in cleaning is the postural workload.
Cleaners work often bent forward and with twisted backs. They daily perform high numbers of
repetitive movements of the arms and a high static and dynamic output of force is regular, for
example when mopping. These types of muscular activities contribute to muscle fatigue and may lead
to musculoskeletal disorders [52].
The weight of loads handled by cleaners is an important risk factor to consider [53]. According to a
study by Aickin, the weight handled by cleaners ranged from 2kg to 42 kg. In another study [54], the
loads lifted and carried by workers were found to be between 5 and 8 kg. The heaviest lifting and
handling activities were moving furniture and handling floor polishers. However, what made the lifting
especially problematic was the combination with awkward postures adopted to handle the load. Weights
were often lifted in twisted bent and other awkward postures. Other factors such as the duration,
repetition of handling the load as well as the individual characteristics of the worker also play a role.