Abstract
Background
The number of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) has been increasing in industrially developing countries. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent these injuries through ergonomic assessment and job redesign.
Objective
This paper presents a practical tool for non-experts in assessing exposure to risk factors for WMSDs.
Methods
Evaluación del Riesgo Idividual (Individual Risk Assessment) (ERIN) is based on available ergonomic tools, epidemiological evidence and the joint International Ergonomics Association-World Health Organization project for developing WMSD risk management in developing countries.
Results
ERIN focuses primarily on physical workplace factors but also includes the workers’ assessment. A scoring system has been proposed to indicate the level of intervention required to reduce the risk of injury. Preliminary tests show that ERIN is easy and quick to use, but further work is needed to establish its reliability and validity. A worksheet has also been designed for increasing the usability of the tool.
Conclusions
The use of ERIN can contribute to the prevention of WMSDs in Cuba and other developing countries.
Keywords
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