The building and public works (BTP) sector is particularly affected by musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). As in all sectors, MSDs represent the leading cause of occupational diseases (PDs) in the construction industry in 2019, with more than 86% of recognized PDs linked to MSDs1.
In this context, and as part of its missions, Public Health France is carrying out specific work on this high-risk sector, such as the study published today on the evolution of risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among construction workers. and public works, in collaboration with the Ester team (directed by Professor Roquelaure, University of Angers – lnserm-lrset). Based on data from the Medical Surveillance of Exposure to Occupational Risks survey (Sumer), this study analyzes the change between 2010 and 2017 in the prevalence of exposure of construction workers, by sub-sector of activity, to factors risk of MSDs. These include exposure to biomechanical, psychosocial and organizational constraints; this in order to contribute to the possible necessary adjustments of the orientations of the prevention of these affections in the construction sector.
Musculoskeletal disorders in France
Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of compensated occupational diseases with 88% of occupational diseases recognized by the general scheme: 44,492 cases in 20191.
The key figures of musculoskeletal disorders
What lessons can we draw from this study?
The results of this study encourage directing prevention actions, in particular towards the sub-sectors of road and railway construction (construction of roads and highways, construction of bridges and tunnels) and floor and wall covering works, but also to employees of small construction companies.
[1] Cnam. Annual report 2019 [Internet]. Paris: L’Assurance Maladie – Occupational Risks; 2020, 168 p.
