Occupational posture exposure among construction electricians.
The aim of this study is to record, objectively describe and compare working postures of Brazilian and Norwegian construction electricians. Postures of the upper arms, head, and neck during work and breaks were quantified by means of inclinometry for a representative sample of 12 Brazilian and 12 Norwegian electricians in the construction industry during a full work-shift. Despite that differences were found between specific work-related factors, Brazilian and Norwegian workers revealed a high and very similar level and pattern of postures for all evaluated body regions, suggesting that results could be extrapolated to other electricians. Upper arm elevation was high and similar for both groups and head flexion and extension was pronounced compared to other occupations. Thus, extreme postures were identified for construction electricians in both countries, with similar exposure pattern also for defined tasks (planning, support and wiredraw), suggesting that this job is risky regardless organizational differences.
Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, Washington Luís Road, Km 235, SP - 310, 13.565-905 São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil.
Cristiane Shinohara
CS
Moriguchi
Letícia
L
Carnaz
Kaj Bo
KB
Veiersted
Therese N
TN
Hanvold
Liv Berit
LB
Hæg
Gert-Åke
GÅ
Hansson
Helenice Jane
HJ
Cote Gil Coury
D000328:Adult; D001938:Brazil; D004559:Electric Wiring; D005160:Facility Design and Construction; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000032:analysis; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000502:physiology; D055815:Young Adult