An exploratory examination of poor construction work practices: Opportunities for ergonomic interventions in the Western Cape

Construction activity is ergonomically challenging. In the study reported in this paper; the ergonomics challenges that construction artisans and their assistants encounter are examined in detail using naturalistic enquiry. The findings reveal unfavourable and repetitive poor work practices. It is contended that these practices; when extrapolated over the working life of the artisans and their assistants could arguably lead to musculo-skeletal syndromes and associated absenteeism. Recommendations for ergonomic interventions are made as solutions to these health consequences