Prevention Through Design (PtD) Adoption Readiness: Control of Health Hazards in Construction

Goals & Objectives

This NIOSH-sponsored project aims to perform, through previously developed survey methods:

1. An evaluation of Prevention through Design (PtD) Adoption Readiness among key decision-makers in high-risk construction trade sectors
2. An analysis of current usage trends and perceptions of Prevention through Design (PtD) technologies and barriers to adoption in these sectors
3. The development of intervention strategies, based upon these findings, to improve diffusion of PtD innovation within the construction industry

The trade sectors to be studied in the proposed research are: concrete/masonry operations, asphalt roofing, and welding. These trades are associated with some of the most pressing occupational health hazard risks in construction. Concrete and masonry operations have been associated with silicosis, increased incidence of tuberculosis, and malignant neoplasm of the lung. Epidemiologic studies of asphalt roofers have revealed an association between this exposure and prevalence of lung cancer and skin irritation. Studies suggest that occupational exposures to welding fumes may pose the risk of serious respiratory, neurological, and reproductive effects.

Project Approach & Activities

Prevention through Design (PtD), eliminating hazards at the design-stage of tools, materials, equipment, and systems, is the optimal method of mitigating occupational health risks. A recent National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH) initiative has established a goal to increase adoption of PtD innovation in industry. The construction industry has traditionally lagged behind other sectors in the adoption of innovation, in general; and of safety and health prevention innovation, in particular.  

PtD controls do exist to control the hazards associated with these construction operations. The extent to which they are currently employed in actual construction practice has yet to be documented. A baseline understanding of current usage trends is needed, in order to establish targets for PtD control adoption. Further, understanding the barriers that prevent the adoption of PtD technologies is needed so that future intervention strategies can advance diffusion within the construction industry. Therefore, the proposed work will document the current usage trends and barriers associated with PtD control technologies in the concrete, masonry, asphalt roofing, and welding trades.

Faculty and Facility

PI: Deborah E. Young-Corbett, Ph.D.

Student Researcher

Ari Goldberg

Funding Source

Prevention Through Design (PtD) Adoption Readiness: Control of Health Hazards in Construction ", NIOSH. (09/01/12 - 08/31/14). PI: D. E. Young-Corbett.  Subproject within U60 OH 009761 (PI: Kleiner).