Mass and Density of Materials: Knowledge and Perceptions

Many construction injuries are musculoskeletal related in the form of sprains and strains arising from the handling of materials. The paper reports on a study conducted among construction management students in a South African university, the objectives being to determine their knowledge and perceptions relative to the mass and density of materials and construction ergonomics. Findings include: knowledge relative to the mass and density of materials is limited, and students appreciate that the mass and density of materials impacts on construction ergonomics. Conclusions include: students lack knowledge and awareness relative to the mass and density of materials, and the undergraduate programme must be reviewed in terms of addressing/referring to the mass and density of materials. Recommendations include: tertiary construction management education must address construction ergonomics; employer and professional associations, and statutory councils must raise the level of awareness relative to construction ergonomics and the mass and density of materials.