Preventing musculoskeletal disorders: eight studies by OPPBTP in a dedicated report

The OPPBTP has published a new report dedicated to the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the building and public works sector. Entitled "Musculoskeletal Disorders: Analysis of 8 High-Risk Occupations," this report presents the findings of eight ergonomic studies conducted in the field with particularly exposed occupations.

These studies are part of a national dynamic of strengthened prevention of occupational wear and tear, supported in particular by the implementation of the Investment Fund for the Prevention of Occupational Wear and Tear (Fipu).

Eight construction trades at the heart of musculoskeletal disorder prevention

The 8 trades studied: finishing masons, pavers, railway track layers, divers, locksmiths-metalworkers, asphalt workers, stonemasons and HVAC technicians combine three targeted risk factors: manual handling, awkward postures and mechanical vibrations.

The studies were entrusted to specialized firms; ergonomists analyzed the actual work in the field in order to identify exposures to risks and to propose, with companies and employees, concrete and adapted solutions.

Practical lessons for the entire sector

The results, consolidated by the OPPBTP Technical Directorate, aim to widely disseminate good practices from the field and to support construction companies in the sustainable reduction of occupational wear and tear.

The report offers specific ergonomic observations for each profession and recommendations for improvements directly applicable on construction sites.

The Fipu, a major lever for preventing occupational burnout

A true pillar of this approach, the Investment Fund for the Prevention of Occupational Wear and Tear (Fipu), created by decree on August 10, 2023, aims to financially support prevention actions carried out in companies.

With a budget of 200 million euros per year for five years, it particularly targets three risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders: manual handling of loads, awkward postures and mechanical vibrations.

The beneficiaries of the FIPU are:

Companies, by financing equipment, training, diagnostics, workstation adjustments or awareness campaigns;
Industry-specific prevention bodies, including OPPBTP, for the development of engineering tools and prevention devices;
France Compétences, in order to support the professional transitions of exposed employees.

By publishing this report, OPPBTP is fully committed to the national strategy to combat occupational wear and tear and reaffirms its commitment to working alongside companies and field actors to sustainably improve working conditions in the construction industry.

Find the Study report "Musculoskeletal Disorders".

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.