Workplace injury risk prediction and risk reduction tools for electronics assembly work

Ergonomics approaches to risk of musculo skeletal disorders are often reactive rather than proactive, an approach supported by a lack of ergonomics expertise, especially in small to medium size companies. However, the EU Framework Directive on health and safety at work (89/391/EEC) demands a comprehensive risk assessment by the employer. Further, the Machinery Directive (89/392/EEC), demands a comprehensive risk assessment at an early design stage. Presented are the results of field studies that have identified suitable risk evaluation methods for electronics assemlby and rework tasks. To assist non-expert ergonomists, a risk reduction module is also presented. Combined, the risk evaluation and risk reduction approaches presented here provide a framework for reducing musculsoskeletal disorders in line with EU safety directives