Ergonomics in Construction

Explore ergonomics in the construction industry—a field where unique jobsite demands and complex work conditions have made musculoskeletal disorders one of the most common and costly injuries.

We’ll break down what ergonomics really means and identify the most common ergonomic hazards, such as forceful exertions, awkward postures, prolonged repetitive motions, contact pressure, vibration exposure, and harsh environmental conditions. We will also explain why these factors are especially challenging on construction sites. You’ll also gain insights into how psychosocial stressors can compound physical risks and impact safety, health, and overall well-being.

Discover practical, proven solutions for reducing ergonomic hazards, from implementing ergonomically designed tools and equipment to training workers in safe techniques, redesigning tasks to fit worker capabilities, and improving jobsite layouts. Learn how comprehensive ergonomic assessments—considering physical, organizational, and environmental factors—can enhance safety, comfort, and productivity across construction teams. This webinar is designed to equip you with actionable steps to protect your workforce and improve performance.

Objectives

Upon completion, participants will be able to:  

1. Define ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders
2. Discuss ergonomic hazards and risks in construction
3. Examine practical solutions to ergonomic issues in construction

Lecturer

Lu Yuan, Sc. D, CIH, CSP

Dr. Yuan is a seasoned educator and researcher with more than 15 years of teaching experience in occupational safety, health, and ergonomics. He served as Professor of Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment at Southeastern Louisiana University, where he also held leadership roles as Undergraduate Coordinator, Associate Professor, and Interim Department Head. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Yuan has taught courses in occupational ergonomics, industrial safety, and environmental health, integrating practical industry experience with rigorous scientific training. He continues to contribute to higher education as an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at Tulane University’s Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, where he teaches project management, safety principles, and ergonomic hazard courses. Dr. Yuan holds a Sc.D. in Occupational Ergonomics and Safety from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and maintains professional certifications as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

Credit

This course contains 1 hours of instruction. 0.1 CEUs are offered for this course.

As an IACET Accredited Provider, Bowen Learning Network offers CEUs for its programs that qualify under the ANSI/IACET Standard.

Eligible for contact hours with the BGC, BCSP, IHMM, and other OEHS certifying agencies.

For more details on certification and recertification credit, please visit How many points/credits/hours is a course worth?

Completion Requirements

To receive a Certificate of Completion for this course, participants are required to complete the following items:

1. Participate in the live webinar or review the on-demand webinar recording.
2. Score 70% or higher on the quiz.
3. Complete the webinar evaluation.

No certificate will be awarded to participants who do not meet the above completion requirements.

Computer Requirements

The Bowen Learning Network online virtual classrooms are powered by BigBlueButton. It fully supports the Windows, Mac OS X, and Chromebook platforms (see below for versions supported). Support is available for iOS (iPads) and Android Tablets. While smart phones can be used, the screens are too small to display all of the aspects of the Virtual Classroom.  For the best online learning experience, the use of a device with a larger screen is HIGHLY recommended. A physical keyboard is also recommended.

See how the Virtual Classroom works: