1
Determine Frequency of Bent Handling
The bending frequency can be determined in different ways. The relevant factor is how often the employee has to bend down in one hour.
A
Motion-Mining®
Within the framework of a Motion-Mining® project, the frequency of the activity for a process can be determined.
B
Process Observation and Timing
In a process observation, the frequency can be determined with the help of a stopwatch or a corresponding app.
2
Consider the Handled Load Weights (> 3 kg per Handled Unit)
Handling in an ergonomically critical position is particularly hazardous if additional weights are handled. According to the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, BAUA), all weights of 3 kg or more per unit handled are particularly relevant. The weight of objects can be analysed in various ways.
A
Analysis of the Master Data
The average weight of a unit can be calculated from the master data.
Note: At the beginning of the analysis it is useful to check the master data for extreme values. Incorrect units or poorly maintained data can lead to implausible outliers that can bias the average upwards or downwards.
B
Recording the Master Data
If master data is not available, it may be useful to create it. To do this, the weights and dimensions of the items need to be recorded. This process can be assisted with tooling.
C
Use Weight Data from Comparable Sites
If there is more than one location with a similar product range, the master data of this location can be used for the analysis.
3
Evaluation of the Ergonomic Load
Various methods can be used to evaluate ergonomic stress. One of the most common, for example, is the Key Indicator Method (KIM). In this case, using the sheet for lifting, holding and carrying of loads ≥ 3 kg (KIM-LHC).