[Risk in load lifting: much more than biomechanics. A mixed-methods research approach in a small Colombian construction company].

Abstract

Objective: To comprehensively evaluate the risk associated with lifting loads in a small Colombian construction company, combining quantitative analysis of biomechanical factors and qualitative analysis of workers' perceptions and coping strategies.

Methods: Cross-sectional study with a mixed methods approach, both quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative phase consisted of an assessment of 8 common tasks in construction using the NIOSH and OWAS methods, breaking down each task into phases and considering the lifting of the load to estimate the most demanding posture and calculate the risk category. The qualitative phase included in-depth interviews with 9 workers (8 men, 1 woman) regarding risk perception and coping strategies, and thematic content analysis was performed.

Results: 62.5% of the evaluated tasks presented high to moderate risk levels of musculoskeletal injury, with shoveling and lifting cement bags being the highest risk tasks. The interviews revealed risk normalization, influence of sociocultural factors (machismo culture, competitiveness) and economic factors (job insecurity) on risk perception and management. Concomitant factors for analysis were identified, such as low work experience, the role of women in the sector, and the migratory status of workers.  Conclusions: The risk associated with lifting loads in construction transcends biomechanical aspects. Socioeconomic, psychosocial, gender, and cultural factors, among others, significantly affect how risk is faced. An integrative model was generated for risk analysis in this population and similar ones.