Managing Risks and Risk Assessment in Ergonomics—A Case Study

Abstract

The paper deals with the evaluation of the ergonomic risks of an injection moulding machine which is used to foam components for car interiors. RULA and NIOSH analyses and methods for assessing working positions according to current legislation were performed as part of the risk assessment. The muscle load on the forearm was also measured while working with the upper limbs in compliance with legislative regulations. Integrated electromyography was used to measure local muscle loading. The Tecnomatix Jack software program was used for the analyses. After identifying the problem areas, corrective measures were then proposed and visualised. After the rationalisation, the workplace was re-measured and evaluated. It was found that the proposed corrective measures would enable the company to improve working conditions for their employees, which would, among other things, enable the company to streamline production, eliminate worker sickness and reduce the potential for occupational illness and injury. The case studies were carried out in the Czech Republic.