Proposed procedures for measuring the lifting task variables required by the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation – A case study

This study aims to contribute to a better understanding of the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation applied to field conditions by providing a detailed description of the procedures for measuring its variables. These procedures were adopted during the evaluation of a lifting/lowering task of steel sheets in an auto parts manufacturing plant. The Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation is a tool for assessing two-handed manual lifting tasks. A review of the existing literature failed to come up with a detailed description of procedures for obtaining the equation variables at a worksite. A systematic approach for data collection was therefore proposed, since this is a key step to apply the equation correctly. Both films and photographs were used throughout the evaluation, following the load from its origin to its final destination. Measurements were taken with several instruments, i.e., tape measures, meter sticks, set squares, protractors, etc. The evaluated task presented a Recommended Weight Limit of 5.73 kg and a Lifting Index of 5.8. This survey found that the NIOSH Lifting Equation is an inexpensive and very useful methodology. However, the researcher must be thoroughly familiar with the methodology and the criteria underpinning its design. Furthermore, the analyst must be trained in handling the devices employed in determining the variables at the work site.Relevance to industryThis study shows a practical application to obtain data for use Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation in industrial company. As didactic element to industry, contributes to the achievement of the measures in workstations that involving of a lifting task. Presenting systematic and reliable procedures to ensure the reproducibility and reliability of the method proposed by the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation (NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health), 1994. Applications Manual for the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation. Technical Report No. 94-110. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NIOSH), Public Health Service, Cincinnati, OH.).