Load on back in concrete reinforcement work.

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Abstract
The demands of work on the backs of concrete reinforcement workers was determined through 4327 observations of the various work postures and the weights lifted. Static loads from forward-leaning and bent-double postures were found to be common. In the preparation of intermediate and thick rods, forward-leaning was required for more than a third of the total work time, while 1 central assembly task required work in the bent-double posture for 58% of the total work time. The dynamic loads were of less importance, even though weights over 30 kg were lifted about 15% of the time in the preparation tasks and momentary forces approaching 1000 N were occasionally needed. The bent-double posture, combined with or quickly followed by additional strain from e.g., weight lifting or slipping, was considered the most probable cause for possible signs of accelerated lumbar disc degeneration, while the forward-leaning postures could be responsible for reversible low-back symptoms.

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