Description
Ergonomics Awareness for Drywall Finishers training describes: (1) what the word “ergonomic” means; (2) types of ergonomic injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome) that occur to drywall finishers; (2) Risk factors for ergonomic injuries (e.g. awkward postures, improper tool use); (3) prevention of ergonomic injuries in drywall finishing (e.g., reducing repetitive activities by switching hands); (4) solutions to ergonomic problems (e.g., new tools such as knives with different degrees of flexibility). The training also features very brief movies of drywall finishers who describe their ergonomic injuries, and of occupational physician Dr. Gary Rischitelli describing musculoskeletal disorders and emphasizing the importance of prevention. The training was developed by content specialist John Kirkpatrick, then of the IUPAT District Council #5. The work is a product of Dr. Kent Anger’s laboratory.
Evidence Base
This training was pilot tested in 7 drywall finishers; knowledge data and observations of work practices were collected before and after training. Knowledge improved (p=0.008) pre to post training; effect size d=1.55. Observed safer behaviors (p < 0.05 or better) were seen after the training: Use of more flexible tools (d = 2.0), use of cushioned tools (d = 1.52), moving materials with equipment (d = 0.75), low stress materials (d = 1.09), no hazards in work area (d = 2.12), stretch and flex before work (d = 1.04) . These results are not published.
Record of Results
Licensing provides an account, password option and secure server space where all results are saved in your organization’s space; results can be downloaded through our Data Reports tool (free).
Notes
• Trainings (licensed ‘uses’) can begin at any time over a year from the initial date on the license.
• Once a training is begun there is no time limit on when it can be completed.
• Users can quit the training (press esc or close browser) and click the original link to return to the same place in the training if they use the exact same user name that they entered when starting training.
