Background: There are very few studies in the Italian and international literature concerning occupational diseases and their prevention in the building industry.
Objectives: The aim of this study was risk assessment in the building industry.
Methods: We analyzed the international literature and the results of our cross-sectional study, which involved more than 1000 workers.
Results: The analysis of several studies and of our experience suggests a high occupational risk in this field and shows as main risk factors: noise, dusts, fibers, manual lifting, prolonged static positions, repetitive motions, hand-shoulder and whole-body vibrations, chemicals and weather conditions. In addition, non-occupational risk factors can influence health: e.g., habits and lifestyle, like hypercaloric diet, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption.
Conclusions: Preventive measures and training initiatives are urgently needed to improve the safety and the health among building workers.