Plantar Pressure Distribution and Posture Stability Analysis in a Construction Roofing Task

10 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Rujan Kayastha, Sujan Acharya, Sabrin Raj Gautam, Tarek Mahmud and Krishna Kisi

Abstract

Roofing tasks on inclined surfaces expose workers to significant biomechanical risks, particularly for novice roofers who lack experience in managing balance and weight distribution on sloped surfaces. This study investigates the impact of varying roof slopes (0°, 15°, and 30°) on plantar pressure distribution across distinct foot zones (toe, metatarsal, midfoot, and heel) among novice roofers, aiming to enhance safety by identifying critical pressure areas under sloped surfaces. Findings reveal that increased slope generally reduces overall plantar pressure, yet high peak pressure remains concentrated in the toe area across all slopes, suggesting a reliance on toe pressure for stability. While metatarsal pressures are higher on flat surfaces and lower on steeper slopes, toe pressure remains consistently elevated, indicating potential for strain-related injuries. These results align with prior studies highlighting the toe's role in stabilizing on inclined surfaces, suggesting the need for ergonomic interventions. Tailored footwear and training on weight distribution strategies may reduce injury risks and improve stability. Despite a limited sample size, the study contributes foundational data for ergonomic guidelines in roofing to reduce injury risk, improve balance, and enhance comfort for novice roofing workers.

Keyphrases: balance posture, center of pressure, construction roofers, ergonomics, plantar pressure

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 674-683.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/dKh9
	https://doi.org/10.29007/1nhx

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Plantar_Pressure_Distribution_Posture,
  author    = {Rujan Kayastha and Sujan Acharya and Sabrin Raj Gautam and Tarek Mahmud and Krishna Kisi},
  title     = {Plantar Pressure Distribution and Posture Stability Analysis in a Construction Roofing Task},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/dKh9},
  doi       = {10.29007/1nhx},
  pages     = {674-683},
  year      = {2025}}

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