Abstract

Concrete blocks are heavy construction materials that are often applied to shallow foundation work manually without adequate consideration of ergonomic risks. Furthermore, the implementation of ergonomic principles and risk management is linked to an enhanced productivity rate. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between ergonomic risks and the productivity rate of construction workers during concrete block installation. The methodology involves analysing the body postures of seven masons and their corresponding productivity rates during the construction of a 37.7-meter shallow foundation for a fence. This study reveals that excessive compression force (Fc) in the lumbosacral joint constitutes the predominant ergonomic risk. The current conventional shallow foundation construction method posed considerable ergonomic risks as the Fc exerted by the masons are beyond the recommended maximum limit. The masons’ application of ergonomic principles, such as maintaining the concrete block close to their body during lifting and lowering activities has reduced ergonomic risks. Masons must maintain a maximum horizontal distance of 0.56 meters between the load and the lumbosacral joint to mitigate these risks. Furthermore, masons must align their spines in a neutral position while in a squatting lifting posture and prevent excessive forward-bent trunk postures. The minimum safe torso angle limit is identified as 68 degrees. A moderate negative correlation (r=-0.55474) exists between ergonomic risk and the productivity rate.

Keywords

Ergonomic risk assessment, Construction worker productivity, Concrete block installation, Lumbosacral compression force, Manual material handling, Working posture analysis.

Cite this article

Nuryanto H, Winarno S, Purnomo H, Teguh M. Ergonomic risks and the productivity rate of construction workers in concrete block installation. International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration. 2026;13(134):1-18. DOI : 10.19101/IJATEE.2025.121220545

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