

Solution: Mortar Stand

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	Description:	A Mortar Stand supports the board or pan that is used to mix mortar. Mortar stands benefit construction workers by providing a level, sturdy base to mix mortar materials at a comfortable level (near waist height). Placing work surfaces and heavy materials near waist level, instead of on the floor, reduces physical strain and the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders due to stooped postures (back injuries). More Detail
	Risks Addressed:	Masons use stooped postures when mortar is repeatedly lifted from a pan on the floor instead of near waist level. Stooped postures increases the risk of back strain and injury as well as increases risk of other musculoskeletal disorders.
	How Risks are Reduced:	Placing the work surface near the workers' waist level reduces or eliminates the need for stooped postures and lifting from floor level. This reduces back, knee, and shoulder stress.
	Quality of Evidence (Risk Reduction):	Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Risk Reduction):	There have not been independent published studies measuring the effect of a Mortar Stand on reducing musculoskeletal disorders. Regardless, safety and health experts believe that the use of mortar stands reduces the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. It is estimated that bricklayers spend 75% of their work time in 30 degrees or more of back flexion. This position increase compressive and shear forces in the low back. By moving the work surface to waist level, time spent in this bent position is minimized.
	Effects on Productivity:	Mortar stands would actually reduce the amount of effort needed to perform a given amount of work since the lifting motion from the feet to the waist is eliminated. This reduced effort could be converted into an increase in repetitiion of the shorter motion and this an increase in productivity while at the same time reducing physical stress.
	Quality of Evidence (Effects on Productivity):	Safety and health experts believe there is an increase in productivity.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Effects on Productivity):	Safety and health experts believe reducing the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders may lead to increased productivity because: 1) masons can work for longer periods at waist level with less fatigue, and 2) there may be a reduction in lost time injuries.
	Return on Investment:	To calculate the return on investment (ROI) for your specific application, please visit our Return on Investment Calculator. While a specific ROI example has not been developed for this particular solution, the ROI Calculator provides a useful tool and guidance on how to generate your own on investment analysis.
	Availability:	Bon For purchasing information, visit http://www.bontool.com/ or contact 1-724-443-7080 or cust.service@bontool.com Mason Drywall Supply For purchasing information, visit http://www.masondrywall.com/ or contact 1-800-725-8959 or by e-mail Star Industries For purchasing information, visit http://www.starindustries.com/ or contact 1-800-541-1797 or mail@starindustries.com Vinco Manufacturing, Inc For purchasing information, visit http://www.vincomfg.com/ or contact 1-866-557-6244 or by e-mail They may also be fabricated on the worksite.
	Contributors:	Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC – Eastern Washington University, and Carlos Sanchez-Marin, DDS, MS – University of Iowa
	Hazards Addressed:	Masonry, Tile, Cement & Plaster Apply coats of plaster or stucco Stooped postures Chip, scrape and grind surfaces, or joints Stooped postures Install forms, pour or apply refractory materials Stooped postures Lay or set brick, block, stone, tile, or marble Kneeling & Squatting Overhead work Stooped postures Spread, level, and smooth concrete, mortar, or terrazzo mixtures Stooped postures Stressful hand & wrist activity