Work

Integrating posture‐hour constraints into construction scheduling to enhance workforce wellbeing

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study introduces a new posture-hour-based scheduling framework that integrates ergonomic constraints into construction planning. It shifts the traditional focus from “labor-hours” to “posture-hours” as a primary resource unit. The novelty lies in (1) defining and formulating this new problem in practical construction settings and (2) developing algorithms that treat posture capacity as an allocatable resource. This approach proactively manages musculoskeletal disorder risks by accounting for each activity's posture-specific demands and workers' posture-holding capacities as scheduling limits. Validated via a benchmark case and a real-world concrete pouring project, applying the framework significantly reduces cumulative exposure to high-risk postures, compared to traditional methods. While it may slightly increase project duration, this trade-off better balances physical workload, prevents posture-induced health issues, and enhances long-term workforce wellbeing and sustainability. This interdisciplinary research provides a foundational framework for integrating occupational health considerations, labor productivity metrics, and construction planning methodologies.

Source: Computer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering

DOI: 10.1111/mice.70140

Authors: Kai Qi, Ming Lu

Institution: Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Language: English

Topic: Occupational Health and Safety Management

Subfield: Occupational Therapy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,230