The conceptual framework for physical risk assessment in multi-purpose workplaces

¹ University of Zielona Gora, Institute of Safety Engineering & Work Science, 4 Prof. Z.Szafrana Street, 65-516 Zielona Gora, Poland
² Poznan University of Technology, Chair of Management and Computing Systems, 11 Strzelecka Street, 61-845 Poznan, Poland

^* Corresponding author: am.lasota@o2.pl

Abstract

In industry work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are still a common problem which frequent cause of health problems, sick leave and it can result in decreased productivity, quality of work and increased absenteeism. Though, traditional manufacturing work practices do not enough take into account task variability issues during the work design – assessment process. Variations in task content and organizational work performance are due to effective use of equipments and reaching high level of productivity. But this variation has impact on work demand and risk to WRMSDs and makes some difficulties with assessment of risk. Therefore, this study aims develop a framework for assessment multi-purpose workplaces. The proposed method integrates complementary concepts of widely known techniques used for evaluation of physical risk factors to WRMSDs on workplaces. Additionally the research framework is highlighting major differences in worker’s exposure to WRMSDs risk, potential impact on awkward postures, and how these findings can be used for finding solutions in a future ergonomic intervention.