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Work posture - 506 entries found

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  • Work posture

2003

CIS 05-470 Winker R., Barth A., Dorner W., Mayr O., Pilger A., Ivancsits S., Ponocny I., Heider A., Wolf C., Rüdiger H.W.
Diagnostic management of orthostatic intolerance in the workplace
Orthostatic intolerance (OI) is characterized by headache, concentration difficulties, palpitations, dizziness associated with postural tachycardia and plasma norepinephrine concentrations that are particularly high when the sufferer is in the upright posture. Until now, OI could be diagnosed only by costly tilt table examinations. This study examined the reliability and validity of a questionnaire as a screening instrument for OI. 138 young men (mean age 21.6 years) who were undergoing military service responded to a questionnaire on OI symptoms. They were also subjected to medical examinations and underwent a tilt table test including monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate and plasma catecholamines in the supine position and during 30 minutes of standing. 104 subjects showed normal tilt table test results. OI was diagnosed in 14 subjects, with other disorders being diagnosed in a further 20 subjects. The questionnaire was found to be a reliable and valid screening instrument for OI.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Mar. 2003, Vol.76, No.2, p.143-150. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 04-35 Good ergonomic work practices for the hotel industry
Many jobs in the hotel industry present risks of strain on the back or other parts of the body. Poor work postures may arise due to ignorance or to poorly-designed workstations. Besides awkward postures, risk factors include manual handling, prolonged standing and repetitive movements. This booklet contains illustrations that show good and bad ergonomics or postures for bellmen, front desk staff, room attendants, waiters, kitchen staff and laundry workers.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, Feb. 2003. 27p. Illus.

CIS 03-1955 Chen Y.L.
Effectiveness of a new back belt in the maintenance of lumbar lordosis while sitting: A pilot study
With the expanding use of video display terminals, a high incidence of low back pain is reported among operators working at screens in sitting postures. This study describes a new design of back belt for use by operators working at screens in seated postures and compares the conditions of wearing this belt with those of no belt wearing. Nine subjects performed a data entry task while sitting at a desk during 60-min periods, during which the trunk and lumbosacral angles were observed. Results showed that there were significant differences in trunk angle and lumbar posture when wearing or not wearing the belt (with an average difference of -14.1° in lumbar lordosis and 16.9° in trunk angle) during the final 10-min stage of the task. The belt seemed to provide support for the back by the counter-supporting force from the knees. The results suggest that the belt may be useful in seated tasks because of its maintenance of lumbar lordosis and erect trunk.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Oct. 2003, Vol.32, No.4, p.299-303. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 03-1940 Perucha Ortega M., Ledesma de Miguel J.
Evaluation of work postures as risk factors of physical workload in trawling
Evaluación de las posturas de trabajo como riesgo de carga física en el sector marítimo-pesquero [in Spanish]
In Spain, 20 to 30% of the permanent invalidities among seafarers are due to musculoskeletal diseases. The objective of this study was to examine strenuous postures adopted during fishing that could present a health hazard to the workers. The different postures of the captain and the crew during seine fishing and squid fishing were analysed using two different methods of physical workload evaluation, RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) and REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment). The findings show that many postures could be easily corrected by using better-adapted tools or auxiliaries, modifying the trawl or training the fishermen to carry out their tasks in a different way. In certain cases, however, posture improvements would require changes in workplace design.
Prevención, trabajo y salud, 2003, No.28, p.11-15. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 03-1219 Marion J., Loïez V., Jaques M., Voisin A.
Study of the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in an aircraft engine manufacturing plant
Etude de prévalence sur les troubles musculosquelettiques (TMS) dans un atelier de fabrication de moteurs d'avion [in French]
The aim of this study was to highlight risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in an aircraft engine manufacturing plant. Groups of persons at risk appeared to be tool setters, welders and metal formers. Ergonomic job studies and analyses of body movements were combined with a questionnaire survey of 181 exposed and 187 non-exposed subjects. The questionnaire responses corroborate the initial hypothesis and job observations, the three groups singled out being indeed groups at risk of MSDs. The main risk factors are physical and mechanical, while psychosocial factors do not appear to be of key importance. The study shows that a rearrangement of the workstations with properly designed tools would enable reducing the risks of MSDs in this plant.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2003, Vol.43, No.4, p.415-421. 13 ref.

2002

CIS 03-1628 Goldsheyder D., Nordin M., Schecter Weiner S., Hiebert R.
Musculoskeletal symptom survey among mason tenders
A survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and characteristics of musculoskeletal symptoms among mason tenders, and to identify work-related activities perceived by them as contributing to their disorders. Findings revealed that 82% of the mason tenders experienced at least one musculoskeletal symptom in the previous year. Low back pain (LBP) was the most frequently reported symptom (65%). Due to LBP, 12% of the labourers missed work and 18% of them visited a physician. Bending or twisting the back, working in the same position or in pain, and heavy lifting were perceived as the most problematic work-related activities. The vast majority of the labourers requested job safety training. A model for primary prevention of LBP was developed and implemented in the trade. The model incorporated ergonomic principles, hazard recognition, and problem solving in the training curriculum for the union instructors teaching trade-specific skills to apprentices.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 2002, Vol.42, No.5, p.384-396. Illus. 49 ref.

CIS 03-1951 Ferreira Y., Helbig R.
Seated at the office - Constraint or pleasure?
Sitzen im Büro - Last oder Lust? [in German]
In the course of their working life, office workers spend approximately 70,000 hours sitting at their desks. This fact alone justifies taking a closer interest in their sitting posture. After an initial brief outline of the risk factors due to sitting postures and the constraints that they imply for the spinal column, this article goes on to describe the characteristics of an ergonomic office chair. It also discusses the advantages of height-adjustable desks that enable certain tasks to be carried out while standing so as to vary the work postures. A check list allows readers to verify whether their office chair is suitable for them and whether their work postures are correct.
Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, 2002, Special issue, p.224-233. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 03-655 Ha E., Cho S.I., Park H., Chen D., Chen C., Wang L., Xu X., Christiani D.C.
Does standing at work during pregnancy result in reduced infant birth weight?
The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between infant birth weight and standing at work during pregnancy. 1,222 pregnant women employed at a large petrochemical site in Beijng, China, were enrolled in the study. The subjects were followed up through their entire pregnancy. All subjects delivered at the company staff hospital between 1996 and 1998. Various work-related physical activities during pregnancy were assessed using a structured questionnaire, and generalized additive models were performed to examine their association with birth weight. Of the assessed activities, only standing was significantly associated with birth weight. After adjusting for potential confounders, maternal standing hours per day at work was found to be significantly associated with reduced birth weight (-17.7g, P=0.03).
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.815-821. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 03-877 Kinne J., Latzel K.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Vibratory models for seated persons subjected to oscillations in the horizontal direction
Schwingungsmodelle des sitzenden Menschen für die horizontalen Schwingungsrichtungen [in German]
Drivers of trucks, agricultural machinery or other motorized vehicles are subjected to oscillations (or vibrations). In order to optimize and evaluate the damping effects of drivers' seats for horizontal oscillations without having to use human test subjects, it was necessary to develop appropriate vibratory models. This document explains how these types of models were developed.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 91p. Illus. 26 ref. Price: EUR 10.50.

CIS 03-464 Marcus M., Gerr F., Monteilh C., Ortiz D.J., Gentry E., Cohen S., Edwards A., Ensor C., Kleinbaum D.
A prospective study of computer users: II. Postural risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders
A total of 632 newly hired computer users was followed prospectively to evaluate associations between posture and neck or shoulder (NS) and hand or arm (HA) musculoskeletal symptoms and musculoskeletal disorders. Participants' postures were measured at entry and they reported symptoms on weekly diaries. Participants who reported symptoms were examined for specific disorders. It was found that keying with an inner elbow angle greater than 121°, greater downward head tilt, and presence of armrests were associated with lower risk of NS symptoms or disorders, while keying with elbow height below the height of the "J" key and the presence of a telephone shoulder rest were associated with a greater risks. Horizontal location of the "J" key over 12cm from the edge of the desk was associated with a lower risk of HA symptoms and disorders, while use of a keyboard with the "J" key more than 3.5cm above the table surface, key activation force higher than 48g, and radial wrist deviation of over 5° while using a mouse were associated with greater risks. The severity of HA symptoms and disorders were also associated with the number of hours of keying per week. See also CIS 03-463.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Apr. 2002, Vol.41, No.4, p.236-249. 22 ref.

CIS 02-1976
Health and Safety Executive
Seating at work
This guidance gives advice on adopting ergonomic sitting postures at the workplace. It also gives examples of good practice, including information on seating design and selection. Topics covered: managing the safety and health risks from seating in the workplace; risk assessment; actions to be taken for safe and suitable seating; workers with special needs; good practice (design, planning the workstation, prevention, selection of seating, maintenance); examples of seating and workstation layout. In appendices: applicable legislation and standards. Replaces CIS 98-92.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. iv, 32p. Illus. 43 ref. Price: GBP 7.95.

CIS 02-1951 Stuebbe P., Genaidy A., Karwowski W., Kwon Y.G., Alhemood A.
The relationships between biomechanical and postural stresses, musculoskeletal injury rates, and perceived body discomfort experienced by industrial workers: A field study
A combination of archival, subjective and observational field data collection methods were used to investigate the relationship between biomechanical and postural stresses, and the resulting physical strain experienced by workers of a packaging plant. Assessment of physical strain was based on the number and incidence rate of Occupational Safety and Health Administration-reportable injuries that were recorded over a period of 27 months, and based on the self-reported ratings of perceived body discomfort. Both the biomechanical and postural stresses correlated with the musculoskeletal injury rate. The results illustrate the usefulness of postural and biomechanical analyses for assessing the risk of musculoskeletal injury in industry.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.2, p.259-280. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 02-968 Szeto G.P.Y., Straker L., Raine S.
A field comparison of neck and shoulder postures in symptomatic and asymptomatic office workers
The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the head, neck and shoulder postures of female office workers with and without symptoms in these regions. The two groups reported significantly different discomfort scores across five trials repeated during a working day. Results of video capture and two-dimensional motion analysis showed increased head tilt and neck flexion postures in the symptomatic subjects compared to the asymptomatic subjects. Symptomatic subjects also tended to have more protracted acromions. All subjects demonstrated an approximately 10% increase in forward head posture from their relaxed sitting postures when working with the computer display, but there were no significant changes in posture as a result of time-at-work.
Applied Ergonomics, Jan. 2002, Vol.33, No.1, p.75-84. Illus. 36 ref.

2001

CIS 04-733 Nogareda Cuixart S.
Working conditions assessment methods: Postural load - REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) method
Evaluación de las condiciones de trabajo: carga postural - Método REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) [in Spanish]
This information note describes the method entitled "Rapid Entire Body Assessment" (REBA) for evaluating the risk of developing disorders related to the conditions of work, including an evaluation of postural load. Contents: characteristics and objectives of the REBA method; carrying out an evaluation involving 144 possible postural combinations; presentation of a practical example of the application of the method to the posture adopted by a nurse to alter the position of a patient in bed.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 6p. Illus. 1 ref.
http://internet.mtas.es/Insht/ntp/ntp_601.htm [in Spanish]

CIS 03-1959 Heinicke K.
Ergonomic evaluation of the work demands during cable ducting work at an automotive component manufacturer
Ergonomische Bewertung der Arbeitsbelastungen in der Kabelbaummontage eines Automobilzuliefererbetriebes [in German]
This report presents the results of an ergonomic evaluation of the physical workload during cable ducting work at an automotive components manufacturer. Work organization and the physical workload demands of various workstations were examined, work postures were recorded and the working environment (climatic conditions and lighting) was evaluated. Organizational and ergonomic measures are proposed for improving working conditions, in particular by designing the layout of workstations so that the elements to be handled are within the reach of workers and limit the demands on the arms, shoulders, neck and back, and by systematically shifting workers between workstations so as to limit monolateral movements.
Sächsisches Landesinstitut für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Reichsstrasse 39, 09112 Chemnitz, Germany, 2001. 17p. Illus. 15 ref.
http://www.arbeitsschutz-sachsen.de/publications/projektberichte/kabelbaum/kabelbaum.pdf [in German]

CIS 03-1468 Hermans V., Op De Beeck R., Van den Broek K.
Injuries due to physical overload
Les lésions dues à la surcharge [in French]
Despite increasing mechanization and automation, workers are still faced with high levels of physical workload. While it is true that certain types of heavy muscular work have been eliminated, physical tasks involving new risks have appeared. These tasks are characterized by prolonged work in the same often awkward posture and by monotonous and repetitive movements. This booklet addresses the issue of potential relationships between work and the incidence of body lesions, specifically of the upper extremities.
PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2001. 35p. Illus. 24 ref. Price: EUR 16.95.

CIS 03-1453 Jansen J.P., Burdorf A., Steyerberg E.
A novel approach for evaluating level, frequency and duration of lumbar posture simultaneously during work
In this study, statistical models are proposed for determining the essential characteristics of postural loads. A direct registration of lumbar posture was made over a workday with an inclinometer for 64 nurses, 16 housekeepers and 27 office workers. An exposure variation analysis was used to summarize information on the angle of trunk flexion, the time period of maintained postures, and the percentage of work time. A hierarchical regression analysis was used to compare these characteristics. The occupational groups did not differ in either frequency or duration of trunk flexion >30°. Nurses were exposed to longer work times than the office workers with trunk flexions of 30-70° maintained for less than five seconds, whereas office workers experienced longer work times at angles of <30° for longer periods. Comparable differences were found between housekeepers and office workers. This method offers an alternative to conventional ergonomic analysis in which the dynamics of exposure are often ignored.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Dec. 2001, Vol.27, No.6, p.373-380. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 03-886 Mechanical vibration and shock - Range of idealized values to characterize seated-body biodynamic response under vertical vibration
Vibrations et chocs mécaniques - Enveloppes de valeurs probables caractérisant la réponse biodynamique d'individus assis soumis à des vibrations verticales [in French]
Indications that several conditions associated with feet and back support, posture, excitation amplitude and subject mass could have a significant influence on measured seated-body biodynamic response led to the conclusion that the definition of a range of idealized values would only be feasible if based on data sets known to have been determined under a well-defined and restricted range of similar conditions. This international standard defines a range of such idealized values for seated individuals. They may find applications in laboratory procedures for assessing vehicle seat performance and for predicting whole-body vibration exposure levels on platforms of mobile machinery.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 2001. vi, 28p. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 03-959 Atlas of human body measures - Data sheets for ergonomic design and evaluation
Atlas miar człowieka - Dane do projektowania i oceny ergonomicznej [in Polish]
The publication presents main anthropometric and biomechanical data for the Polish population, necessary for the ergonomic design and evaluation of structures, and especially workplaces and personal protective equipment.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 106p. Illus.

CIS 03-271 Zeller M.
Working at screens in a reclined position?
Bildschirmarbeit - im Liegen!? [in German]
Postures adopted during work at computer screens while seated at a desk induce a tensing of muscles, which in turn gives rise to poor blood irrigation and pulmonary ventilation. This article discusses the ergonomics of various unusual attitudes for working at screens, in particular the reclined or semi-reclined postures which have the quality of reducing muscular tension. The screen and keyboard positions are discussed, as well as those of document holders when present. Various types of keyboards are presented, including some at the prototype stage such as split keyboards, vertical split keyboard and mobile keyboards with a reduced number of keys, where some letters require the simultaneous depression of several keys.
Computer-Fachwissen, July 2001, No7, p.8-11. Illus.

CIS 02-1966 Swat K.
Back load evaluation system to analyse different manual tasks in industry
Metoda szacowania obciążenia kręgosłupa przy pracy ręcznej [in Polish]
Low-back pain (LBP) and injuries attributed to manual lifting activities are one of the main problems of occupational safety and health in all industrialized countries. Despite numerous efforts, there is still no dependable method of assessing back load with a view of preventing low-back musculoskeletal injuries. A simple and effective method of assessing low-back load during the manual handling of objects based on the ERGONOM work analysis method developed in the mid-90s is proposed. The evaluation method was applied at six jobs in printing industry. An additional comparative study was carried out at the same work places with the revised NIOSH equation for the design and evaluation of manual lifting tasks. Results of all preliminary tests indicate that the new method makes it possible to classify workplaces by intensity of back load.
Ergonomia, 2001, Vol.24, No.1-2, p.91-110. Illus.13 ref.

CIS 02-765 Lewis R.J., Fogleman M., Deeb J., Crandall E., Agopsowicz D.
Effectiveness of a VDT ergonomics training program
An evaluation of changes introduced in work posture adjustment at visual display terminal (VDT) work stations, due to an ergonomics training course. There were significant reductions in the severity of musculoskeletal symptoms, but no such reductions were detected for the presence of symptoms. A long-term study is suggested to detect statistically significant changes.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2001, Vol.27, No.2, p.119-131. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 02-955 Neumann W.P., Wells R.P., Norman R.W., Frank J., Shannon H., Kerr M.S.
OUBPS Working Group (Ontario Universities Back Pain Study)
A posture and load sampling approach to determining low-back pain risk in occupational settings
Physiological risk factors for low-back pain were studied in the motor vehicle manufacturing industry in Canada sampling specific workloads and postures (involving spinal compressions, hands flexions) associated with reported back-ache. The approach appears useful in providing information in order to reduce the risk of injury musculoskeletal injury.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2001, Vol.27, No.2, p.65-77. Illus. 27 ref.

CIS 02-960 Blackburn P., Girard M., Lagassé P.P.
Biomechanical analysis among book replacement library clerks
Analyse biomécanique chez les commis au reclassement des documents d'une bibliothèque [in French]
A task analysis was conducted on library clerks responsible for book replacement at a university library. Forces and moments of force at the shoulder, hip and knee joints were assessed via a biomechanical analysis conducted to determine the impact of these tasks on the musculoskeletal system. A video camera along with a human biomechanical analysis software were used to conduct this analysis. The results indicate that replacing a book in the horizontal plane is the most frequently executed task on a daily basis. Furthermore, the tasks in which books are replaced at a height located between the shoulders and the trunk is the most efficient for the musculoskeletal system, whereas those in which books are replaced at a height located below the pelvis are the most soliciting from a biomechanical point of view.
Travail et santé, Dec. 2001, Vol.17, No.4, p.24-26. 7 réf.

CIS 02-976 Kirchberg S., Kittelmann M., Reyhl H.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Assessment of elastomeric floor coverings in workplaces requiring a standing work posture
Beurteilung elastischer Bodenbeläge an Steharbeitsplätzen [in German]
In order to reduce the musculoskeletal load on workers, elastomeric floor coverings have frequently been adopted in workplaces requiring a standing work posture. However, there are currently no specific criteria for their development or selection. This project involved measurements of elasticity, compressive loads of the feet and vertical ground forces for a number of floor covering materials and constructions. Findings enabled the definition of design criteria for producers and selection criteria for users.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2001. 100p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: EUR 11.50.

CIS 02-465 Lintula M., Nevala-Puranen N., Louhevaara V.
Effects of Ergorest arm supports on muscle strain and wrist positions during the use of the mouse and keyboard in work with visual display units: A work site intervention
The effects of Ergorest arm supports on wrist angles and musculoskeletal strain in the neck-shoulder-arm region and electrical activity in the shoulder and arm muscles were studied during typing or the use of the mouse in work with a visual display unit (VDU). 21 women were divided into three groups (one arm support, two arm supports, and control). Measurements were carried out before and after the six-week intervention. The wrist extension of the mouse hand, the muscle activity of the trapezius muscle, and the subjective discomfort ratings indicated that two arm supports were better than one during work with a mouse. The Ergorest arm support alleviates muscle and joint strain in VDU work when used for both arms.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2001, Vol.7, No.1, p.103-116. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 02-464 Dowler E., Kappes B., Fenaughty A., Pemberton G.
Effects of neutral posture on muscle tension during computer use
The objective of this study was to develop a new approach for evaluating seated work positions. 67 office workers who use a Visual Display Terminal (VDT) during a major portion of their working day were evaluated. Muscle tension was measured by surface electromyography (sEMG) while participants were asked to adopt four selected working postures. Pain was measured before and after ergonomic intervention on the Nordic scale, which was modified for this study. Adjustable workstations were used to place participants in desired positions during the testing sessions and the extended intervention period. Results indicate that this ergonomic intervention may have positive effects on muscle tension and pain, significant enough to encourage employers to implement training and workstation modifications following these guidelines.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2001, Vol.7, No.1, p.61-78. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 02-449 Nussbaum M.A., Torres N.
Effects of training in modifying working methods during common patient-handling activities
It is generally recommended that workers who perform strenuous physical exertions be given training in proper techniques to minimize musculoskeletal risks. In the present study, the effects of training were examined at a behavioral level, and it was assumed that any long-term reduction in injuries must be preceded by measurable changes in how exertions are performed. Because of high injury incidence rates among nurses, common patient-handling tasks were the basis of the study. Participants performed several such tasks and sub-groups received training that consisted of either a commercial video or combined lecture and practice sessions. Compared to a control group, postural, and biomechanical measures were significantly altered following training. Specifically, training was associated with the adoption of a more upright lifting posture. The results suggest that training can modify behavior in an intended direction.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 2001, Vol.27, No.1, p.33-41. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 02-440 Kothiyal K., Kayis B.
Workplace layout for seated manual handling tasks: An electromyography study
To determine the effect of varying magnitude of load and work rate on muscular strain in seated manual handling tasks performed with one hand and the effect of direction of movement on muscular strain, 10 subjects (males and females) performed the task of moving weights from an outward position to a point closer to the body midline. Subject used the dominant hand to perform the task and handled weights of magnitude 1 and 2kg at the work rates of 10 and 20 movements/min. at various starting positions with respect to the body midline over a distance of 38cm. Subjects worked at an adjustable work station and adjusted it until their elbow height and table height were at the same level. Results show that muscular strain as measured by electromyography activity was sensitive to variations in magnitude of load and work rate. Work rate had a relatively large influence on muscular strain as compared to magnitude of load. Total muscle load was dependent on the direction of movement.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 2001, Vol.27, No.1, p.19-32. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 02-190 Binet-Mageau M., Alcouffe J., Sauvagère J., Montéléon M.P.Y.
Study of low back pain at a Paris retailer of consumer electronics and media publications
Etude des lombalgies dans une entreprise parisienne de distribution de produits électroniques "grand public" et culturels [in French]
Back pain was studied in a among workers of a large consumer electronics and media publications retail chain. The questionnaire-based epidemiological survey was conducted by the occupational physician during regular annual checks between 1 October 1999 and 30 September 2000. The sample consisted of 377 workers (222 men et 155 women). The prevalence of back pain during the 12 months studied was 36.6%, without differences between men and women. In most cases, it consisted of simple backache, only 2.4% of workers being affected by severe back pain (with sciatic pain). Risk factors included strenuous postures during work and high occupational or non-occupational workloads. The occupational physician appeared to be a better judge than the worker of the level of physical workload.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2001, Vol.41, No.2, p.179-184. 7 ref.

CIS 01-886 Ariëns G.A.M., Bongers P.M., Douwes M., Miedema M.C., Hoogendoorn W.E., van der Wal G., Bouter L.M., van Mechelen W.
Are neck flexion, neck rotation, and sitting at work risk factors for neck pain? Results of a prospective cohort study
To study the relation between neck pain and work-related neck flexion, neck rotation and sitting, a prospective cohort study was performed with a follow-up of 3 years among 1,334 workers from 34 companies. Work-related physical load was assessed by analysing objectively measured exposure data (video recordings) of neck flexion, neck rotation and sitting posture. Neck pain was assessed by a questionnaire. Adjustments were made for various non-occupational physical factors, psychosocial factors and individual characteristics. A significant positive relation was found between the percentage of the working time in a sitting position and neck pain, with an increased risk of neck pain for workers sitting more than 95% of the time (crude relative risk (RR) 2.01; adjusted RR 2.34). A positive relationhip between neck flexion and neck pain was found, suggesting an increased risk for people working with the neck at a minimum of 20° of flexion for more than 70% of the time (crude RR 2.01; adjusted RR 1.63). No clear relationship was found between neck rotation and neck pain.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2001, Vol.58, No.3, p.200-207. 24 ref.

2000

CIS 03-1733 Cail F.
50 questions concerning work at screens
Le travail sur écran en 50 questions [in French]
This practical ergonomic guide consists of a compilation of 50 questions frequently asked by persons working on computer screens. For each question, it provides one or several solutions, ranked where possible by their ergonomic quality.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité (INRS), 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris cedex 14, France, 3rd ed., May 2000. 29p. Illus. Price: EUR 5.10.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view_view/F2A3325063AEA1E3C1256F09003F22E8/$FILE/ed923.pdf [in French]

CIS 02-954 Punnett L., Fine L.J., Keyserling W.M., Herrin G.D., Chaffin D.B.
Shoulder disorders and postural stress in automobile assembly work
A case-control study was conducted in an automobile assembly plant. The cases were 79 workers who reported shoulder pain and met symptom criteria in an interview. More than one-half also had positive findings in a physical examination. The 124 controls were randomly selected workers free of shoulder disorders. For each participant, the job was analysed for postural and biomechanical demands by an analyst blinded to case-referent status. 41% of the subjects flexed or abducted the right arm "severely" (above 90°) during the job cycle, and 35% did so with the left arm. Shoulder disorders were associated with severe flexion or abduction of the left (odds ratio (OR) 3.2) and the right (OR 2.3) shoulder. The risk increased as the proportion of the work cycle exposed increased. The findings support the conclusion that severe shoulder flexion or abduction, especially for 10% or more of the work cycle, is predictive of chronic or recurrent shoulder disorders.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2000, Vol.26, No.4, p.283-291. Illus. 42 ref.

CIS 02-722 Kirkeskov Jensen L., Mikkelsen S., Loft I.P., Eenberg W., Bergmann I., Løgager V.
Radiographic knee osteoarthritis in floorlayers and carpenters
The relationship between knee-straining work and radiological findings of knee osteoarthritis and between radiological findings and self-reported knee complaints and clinical signs of knee osteoarthritis were examined in 133 floorlayers, 506 carpenters, and 327 compositors who had completed a questionnaire and reported no previous knee trauma. The radiological investigation showed estimated prevalences of knee osteoarthritis for 14% of the floorlayers, 8% of the carpenters and 6% of the compositors. Radiological grades 2-4 were mainly found for subjects above the age of 50 years, subjects with knee complaints, and floorlayers. The data suggest that work in which a considerable amount of time is spent in knee-straining positions may be a risk factor for the development of knee osteoarthritis above the age of 50 years.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 2000, Vol.26, No.3, p.257-262. 18 ref.

CIS 02-688 Krause N., Lynch J.W., Kaplan G.A., Cohen R.D., Salonen R., Salonen J.T.
Standing at work and progression of carotid atherosclerosis
The association between the extent of standing at work and the progression of carotid intima media thickness (IMT) was studied among 584 men participating in the study. Ultrasound measurements of atherosclerotic changes in the carotid arteries were performed at the beginning of the study and after 4 years. Analyses of changes in IMT included adjustment for risk factors and stratification by base-line levels of atherosclerosis and prevalent ischaemic heart disease (IHD).These findings provide the first empirical support in a population study for the role of haemodynamic factors in the progression of atherosclerosis induced by long-term standing postures. Men with carotid stenosis or IHD appear especially vulnerable. Reducing the duration of standing at work should be considered both in the occupational rehabilitation of such patients and in the primary prevention of atherosclerosis.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 2000, Vol.26, No.3, p.227-236. Illus. 75 ref.

CIS 02-452 Hillecke M., Schütte M., Laurig W.
Anthropometric analysis and design of a driver's workplace in a side-loading refuse collecting vehicle
Anthropometrische Analyse und Gestaltung des Fahrerarbeitsplatzes eines Seitenlader-Abfallsammelfahrzeugs [in German]
The postures of drivers in side-loading garbage collecting trucks were determined by anthropometric analyses according to the ISO 3411 and EN 894 standards. Side-loading garbage collection trucks are equipped with an extension arm which picks up the garbage containers and empties them into the truck. The driver controls the extension arm from his seat with a joystick. The anthropometric analyses revealed that very unfavourable postures were adopted for viewing the automatic emptying process. Recommended design changes include the installation of a revolving driver's seat and a larger side window. A new design for side-loading garbage collection trucks is also presented, requiring no rotating movement by the driver, who can remained seated in an upright position.
Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, 2000, Vol.54, No.3-4, p.249-257. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 02-447 Das B., Sengupta A.K.
Evaluation of low back pain risks in a beef skinning operation
Low back pain risks in a beef skinning workstation were evaluated. The increases in compressive forces at the lower back (L5/S1) between normal and severe, and between normal and very severe bent back postures were 387N or 28% and 616N or 45%, respectively. The high spine load coupled with high level of repetition can give rise to fatigue failure in the spine structural members. Non-neutral back posture for a large portion of the total work time can be a low back pain risk factor. Videotape analysis showed that the times involved during the task performance for the bent back (more than 25°) and severe bent back (more than 45°) were 48.4 and 33.5% of the total cycle time, respectively. The upper limit from OWAS (Ovako Working Posture Analysis System) for bent back posture is 30% of the total cycle time. The bent and twisted back posture (both more than 25°) time was 10.4 % compared to OWAS limit of 5%. This indicated that actions are needed to alleviate the risk of low back pain, including ergonomic redesign of the workstation.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2000, Vol.6, No.3, p.347-361. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 01-1845 Reynolds Mozrall J., Drury C.G., Sharit J., Cerny F.
The effects of whole-body restriction on task performance
Cognitive task performance in restricted spaces presents cognitive demands (the task itself) as well as additional physical demands (e.g. awkward postures), which may adversely affect task performance or operator workload. This research focused on the effects of whole-body restrictions on cognitive task performance. Nine levels of restriction were examined: an unrestricted control, 6 single whole-body restrictions at two severity levels (2 lateral, 2 sagittal and 2 vertical) and 2 multiple restrictions (sagittal-vertical, lateral-sagittal-vertical). An inspection task served as the cognitive task. Physiological, psychophysical and behavioural measures were collected and analysed to measure the operator and performance effects. Results show that increasing restriction significantly affected the behavioural and physiological operator response, but not the cognitive response.
Ergonomics, Nov. 2000, Vol.43, No.11, p.1805-1823. Illus. 48 ref.

CIS 01-1546 Park M.Y., Kim J.Y., Shin J.H.
Ergonomic design and evaluation of a new VDT workstation chair with keyboard-mouse support
A new-concept VDT workstation chair with an adjustable keyboard and mouse support was designed, based upon the result of 3-D graphical simulations and the anthropometric specifications of the Korean population. A prototype chair was constructed with a keyboard and mouse support directly attached to the chair body. An experiment was conducted to compare the new workstation chair to a conventional computer chair without a keyboard-mouse support by measuring muscle fatigue and surveying subjective discomfort. Six volunteer subjects participated in six 1-hour word-processing sessions with the two chairs and three different work postures. Results indicate that the new-concept VDT chair generally improved subjective comfort level and reduced fatigue in the finger flexor and extensor, and the low back muscles. Implications of the new design and suggestions for further development are addressed.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Nov. 2000, Vol.26, No.5, p.537-548. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 01-1540 van Deursen D.L., van Deursen L.L.J.M., Snijders C.J., Goossens R.H.M.
Effect of continuous rotary seat pan movements on physiological oedema of the lower extremities during prolonged sitting
To assess the time-related response of swelling in the lower extremities during static supported sitting compared with sitting in an experimental chair which uses rotary continuous passive motion of the seat pan, ten healthy subjects were measured in two conditions, with and without dynamic stimulation of the seat pan, in 3h sitting sessions, on successive days. The volume of the lower legs was measured four times, at 1h intervals, by means of water displacement volumetry. Significant differences in lower leg swelling were found between the static and the dynamic situation. Female subjects showed an increased response in time-related leg swelling and the age of subjects also influenced the results. Dynamic stimulation during sitting has an oedema-reducing effect on the lower extremities. Continuous passive motion is a promising tool for prevention and therapy for the airline and professional transport industries, and in numerous other industrial applications.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Nov. 2000, Vol.26, No.5, p.521-526. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 01-1257 Work-related neck and upper limb musculoskeletal disorders
Arbejdsbetinget besvær i nakke, skuldre og arme [in Danish]
Arbeitsbedingte Muskel- und Skeletterkrankungen im Bereich des Nackens und der oberen Gliedmaßen [in German]
Muoskeletikes pathēseis tou auhena kai tōn anō akrōn pou sundeontai me tēn ergasia [in Greek]
Trastornos musculoesqueléticos de origen laboral del cuello y las extremidades superiores [in Spanish]
Arbetsrelaterade belastningsskador i nacke, skuldror, armar och händer [in Swedish]
Troubles musculo-squelettiques du cou et des membres supérieurs d'origine professionnelle [in French]
Disturbi muscoloscheletrici degli arti superiori e del collo legati all'attività lavorativa [in Italian]
Beroepsgerelateerde aandoeningen aan nek, schouders en armen [in Dutch]
Choroby układu mięśniowo-szkieletowego szyi i kończyn górnych, związane z pracą [in Polish]
Perturbações das cervicais e dos membros superiores relacionadas com o trabalho [in Portuguese]
Työperäiset niskan ja yläraajojen tuki- ja liikuntaelimistön sairaudet [in Finnish]
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the neck and upper extremities affect millions of workers in Europe, in all sectors of activity (see also CIS 01-1255 and CIS 01-1256). This information note describes the main conclusions of a report published by the European Agency for the Safety and Health at Work. The sectors of activity most exposed to these risks include agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing and mining industries, building, distribution (wholesale and retail) and repair, as well as hotels and restaurants. In terms of occupations, manual labourers, machine operators, secretaries and manual handlers are most at risk. Scientific studies provide solid evidence in favour of the theory of biological causation of MSDs; in particular, they show a close causal relationship between work-related MSDs and the performance of certain tasks. This information note is available from the European Agency in all 11 official languages of the EU.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, http://osha.eu.int, 2000. 2p. Illus. 1 ref.
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/nl/facts5_nl.pdf [in Dutch]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/pt/facts5_pt.pdf [in Portuguese]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/fi/facts5_fi.pdf [in Finnish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/sv/facts5_sv.pdf [in Swedish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/en/facts5_en.pdf [in English]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/es/facts5_es.pdf [in Spanish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/da/facts5_da.pdf [in Danish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/de/facts5_de.pdf [in German]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/el/facts5_el.pdf [in Greek]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/it/facts5_it.pdf [in Italian]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/pl/Fakty_05_PL.pdf [in Polish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/5/fr/facts5_fr.pdf [in French]

CIS 01-1256 Preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders
Forebyggelse af arbejdsbetinget besvær i kroppens muskler og led [in Danish]
Arbeitsbedingten Muskel- und Skeletterkrankungen vorbeugen [in German]
Prolēpsē tōn muoskeletikōn pathēseōn pou sundeontai me tēn ergasia [in Greek]
Prevención de los trastornos musculoesqueléticos de origen laboral [in Spanish]
Att förebygga arbetsrelaterade belastningsskador [in Swedish]
Prévenir les troubles musculo-squelettiques d'origine professionnelle [in French]
Prevenire le patologie muscoloscheletriche legate all'attività lavorativa [in Italian]
Preventie van beroepsgebonden aandoeningen aan het bewegingsapparaat [in Dutch]
Zapobieganie chorobom układu mięśniowo-szkieletowego, związanym z pracą [in Polish]
Prevenir as perturbações músculo-esqueléticas relacionadas com o trabalho [in Portuguese]
Työperäisten tuki- ja liikuntaelinsairauksien ehkäisy [in Finnish]
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems in Europe (see CIS 01-1255 and CIS 01-1257); they affect millions of workers and cost billions of Euros. Their prevention is therefore a priority objective. For preventing MSDs, it is essential to identify the risk factors and to take concrete steps to avoid or reduce these risks. Particular attention needs to be given to the evaluation of these risks, the monitoring of workers' health and the avoidance of fatigue, as well as to training, information provision and awareness creation among workers on the ergonomic aspects of work organization. This information note presents the main European Directives concerning MSDs along with the key elements of the European approach for their prevention. It also includes examples of ergonomic solutions aimed at preventing risks linked to manual handling and other MSD risk factors. This information note is available from the European Agency in all 11 official languages of the EU.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, http://osha.eu.int, 2000. 2p. Illus. 9 ref.
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/en/facts4_en.pdf [in English]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/es/facts4_es.pdf [in Spanish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/da/facts4_da.pdf [in Danish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/de/facts4_de.pdf [in German]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/el/facts4_el.pdf [in Greek]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/it/facts4_it.pdf [in Italian]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/pl/Fakty_04_PL.pdf [in Polish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/pt/facts4_pt.pdf [in Portuguese]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/fi/facts4_fi.pdf [in Finnish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/sv/facts4_sv.pdf [in Swedish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/fr/facts4_fr.pdf [in French]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/4/nl/facts4_nl.pdf [in Dutch]

CIS 01-1255 Work related musculoskeletal disorders in Europe
Arbejdsbetinget besvær i kroppens muskler og led i Europa [in Danish]
Arbeitsbedingte Muskel- und Skeletterkrankungen in Europa [in German]
Muoskeletikes pathēseis pou sundeontai me tēn ergasia stēn Eurōpē [in Greek]
Trastornos musculoesqueléticos de origen laboral en Europa [in Spanish]
Arbetsrelaterade belastningskador i Europa [in Swedish]
Les troubles musculo-squelettiques d'origine professionnelle en Europe [in French]
Patologie muscoloscheletriche legate all'attività lavorativa in Europa [in Italian]
Beroepsgebonden aandoeningen van het bewegingsapparaat in Europa [in Dutch]
Perturbações músculo-esqueléticas causadas pelo trabalho na Europa [in Portuguese]
Työperäiset tuki- ja liikuntaelimistön sairaudet Euroopassa [in Finnish]
Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems in Europe, and in view of their cost to the economy, their prevention is becoming a priority. Each year, 30% of European workers, namely 44 million persons, complain of back pain. The causes of MSDs are often connected to work organization. The main risks are related to the physical stress factors (high loads, repetitive movements, vibrations, work rhythms), to repetitive work and to psychosocial factors. The groups at risk include manual workers, short-term workers, women (disorders of the upper extremities) and older workers. The estimated cost to the economy ranges from 0.5% to 2% of the GNP of European Union member states. Ergonomic improvements (modifications in the organization of work, changes in the workplace layout) would allow a significant reduction in the number of cases of MSDs (see also CIS 01-1256 and CIS 01-1257). This information note is available from the European Agency in all 11 official languages of the EU.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, http://osha.eu.int, 2000. 2p. Illus. 10 ref.
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/en/facts3_en.pdf [in English]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/fr/facts3_fr.pdf [in French]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/es/facts3_es.pdf [in Spanish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/da/facts3_da.pdf [in Danish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/de/facts3_de.pdf [in German]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/el/facts3_el.pdf [in Greek]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/nl/facts3_nl.pdf [in Dutch]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/pt/facts3_pt.pdf [in Portuguese]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/fi/facts3_fi.pdf [in Finnish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/sv/facts3_sv.pdf [in Swedish]
http://agency.osha.eu.int/publications/factsheets/3/it/facts3_it.pdf [in Italian]

CIS 01-745 Abreu P., Cruz E.
Working while seated - How to prevent backache
Trabalhar sentado - como prevenir as dores na sua coluna [in Portuguese]
The aim of this guide and CD-ROM edited by the Portuguese association of physiotherapists is to prevent back problems and discomfort during work in a seated posture, particularly when working with a computer. Main topics covered: anatomy of spinal column; causes of back problems; causes of discomfort (muscular tension, psychological stress, disc lesions, spondylarthrosis); health consequences of incorrect seated posture and repetitive movements; correct posture and movements; ergonomic design of the workplace; exercises to be done at the workplace and at home; advice for a healthy lifestyle.
Associação Portuguesa de Fisioterapeutas, Lisboa, Portugal, 2000. 15p. Illus. + CD-ROM

CIS 01-901 Ergonomics - Evaluation of static working postures
Ergonomie - Evaluation des postures de travail statiques [in French]
This international standard establishes ergonomic recommendations for different work tasks. It provides information for those involved in the design or redesign of work, jobs and products. It specifies recommended limits for static working postures without, or with only minimal external force exertion, while taking into account body angles and time aspects. Recommendations are based on experimental studies regarding musculoskeletal load, discomfort and pain, and endurance and fatigue related to static working postures.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 2000. v, 19p. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 01-473
Health and Safety Executive
Manual handling in the catering industry
Almost one fifth of reportable accidents involving persons who work in the catering industry are caused my manual handling. Aimed at employers and self-employed persons in the catering industry, this information sheet offers guidance on practical measures to reduce the risks of injury. Topics covered: United Kingdom legislation; risk factors, including tasks, loads, working environment and clothing; practical measures to control risk, including avoiding manual tasks, using mechanical aids, re-designing individual tasks, making loads easier to handle and improving workplace conditions; information and training.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2000. 2p. 4 ref.

CIS 01-267 Drew W.E.D.
Spinal symptoms in aviators and their relationship to G-exposure and aircraft seating angle
Aviator spinal symptoms related to G-exposure such as neck pain may limit flying performance. An anonymous survey was conducted to better establish the nature and degree of these symptoms. High-performance (HP) aviators (fighter pilots) were compared with a control group of non-high performance (NHP) aviators (aircrew of tankers, transports and bombers). No greater incidence of chronic spinal symptoms or disease in the neck or lower back were reported in the HP group as compared with the NHP group. However, 54% of the HP aviators did report acute spinal symptoms, especially neck pain temporally associated with pulling Gz occurring either during or shortly after sorties. 20% of the HP aviators reported that neck symptoms limited their flying performance. The increased seat angle in the F-16 aircraft does not give rise to significant differences in neck symptoms or performance limitation when compared with the F-15.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2000, Vol.71, No.1, p.22-30. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 01-268 Wakui T.
Study on work load of matrons under shift work in a special nursing home for the elderly
For six healthy matrons in a special nursing home for the elderly (SNH), care working time, heart rate, walking steps, estimated energy expenditure and working time in different postures were determined during day and night shift work. Although the time on duty, working and recess were significantly longer in night shift work, the percentages of working and recess time to duty time were similar. The maximum, minimum and mean heart rate were similar. The estimated total energy expenditure was significantly higher in night shift work; however work intensity was significantly higher in day shift work. The longest length and larger percentage of working time were observed in standing posture in each shift work. These findings suggest that physical activity and energy expenditure of matrons under either shift work in the SNH are high.
Industrial Health, July 2000, Vol.38, No.3, p.280-288. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 00-1368 Kaukiainen A.
Promotion of the health of construction workers
This report presents the combined results of five studies of construction workers and office cleaners. The purpose of these studies was to improve the health and aptitude to work through the implementation of physical exercise programmes, the introduction of tools with improved ergonomic characteristics, health education and ergonomic counselling. Results indicate that musculoskeletal symptoms decrease and muscular strength and balance increase as a result of physical exercise. Tools with ergonomic improvements allowed the reduction of fatigue and muscular and cardiac loads. Ergonomic education and counselling caused improvements in work and in the work environment, and led to an increased need of ergonomic improvements in small enterprises. A model facilitating the planning, implementation and follow-up of a health promotion programme is also presented.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2000. 85p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 00-1360
Health and Safety Executive
Moving food and drink - Manual handling solutions for the food and drink industries
This publication is aimed at employers in the food and drink industries, whose employees have a high risk of developing muscular and articular injuries. It presents 100 case studies grouped under six headings: raw materials handling; production; packing, stacking and moving of containers; handling equipment; off-site delivery. For each case, the task is described, and the problems and injuries it gives rise to are defined. Solutions are presented, and their positive effects are highlighted.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. xvi, 106p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 15.95.

CIS 00-1476 Mason S.
Health and Safety Executive
Musculoskeletal injuries from complex postures
The aim of this study was to identify factors which increase actual risks of injury in tasks which involve complex postures (non-symmetrical aspects of the handling such as twisting and turning or side bending, restricted headroom or work space, kneeling, one-handed lifting). 134 cases from personal injury claims which involving a musculoskeletal injury alleged to be the result of manual handling were analysed. Non-symmetrical handling involving twisting and turning, and to a lesser extent side bending, represent a significant proportion of the claims. Other risk factors are previous injury, size and shape of the load, time in the job and restricted workspace. The potential importance of psychosocial factors is discussed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. vi, 61p. 39 ref. Price: GBP 15.00.

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