ERIN: a practical tool for assessing work-related musculoskeletal disorders

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.