Ergonomic hazards in construction, such as repetitive motion, awkward postures, and manual material handling, can lead to serious musculoskeletal disorders if not properly managed. While there is no specific OSHA standard for ergonomics in construction, employers are still required to mitigate recognized risks to workers’ health and safety.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), created under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, enforces safety standards published in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. In the absence of a dedicated construction ergonomics standard, employer responsibilities fall under OSHA’s General Duty Clause.

Key governing regulations include:

• OSH Act General Duty Clause – Employer responsibility to provide a workplace free of recognized hazards
• 29 CFR Part 1926 – OSHA Construction Industry Standards (general framework for worker safety)

Topics Covered 

• Floor and ground-level work
• Overhead work
• Lifting, holding, and handling materials
• Hand-intensive work