Development of an aid to identifying task elements, which may predispose individuals to work related upper limb disorders. Final report on HSE Research Contract No.1/LMD/126/305/89

The Posture Assessment Aid has been developed by the IOM for the preliminary assessment of upper limb postures associated with potentially hazardous industrial work tasks. It is intended to provide a more detailed assessment of a job than is provided for by the Risk Factor Checklist incorporated into the HSE guide to the prevention of work-related upper limb disorders. It consists of two parts: ‘Task Description’ and ‘Action Analysis and Assessment’. The Task Description provides a systematic breakdown of the movements and actions associated with the job in question. This breakdown is then used in the Action Analysis and Assessment, progressing through the job in stages by analysing each element. The assessment is made against current scientific knowledge and is formulated into a series of assessment grids, categorising each action as involving a low, medium or high risk of upper limb disorders.Preliminary trials of the aid have been carried out involving occupational hygienists, doctors and managerial staff. Further work is required to examine its utility and effectiveness.