Evaluation of Workplaces and Corrective Actions in the Central Iranian Steel Industries

Background & Aims of the Study: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the important occupational health issues. Prevention of these discomforts requires posture assessment at work stations using ergonomic job analysis methods. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the work stations and perform corrective actions in one of the central steel industries of Iran to decrease the frequency of these disorders. Materials and Methods: An Interventional and analytical study were performed at 29 stations on one central steel industries in Iran in 2017. Initially, a primary assessment was done by using RULA method, and after calculating the possibility of musculoskeletal disorders, corrective actions were taken at high risk sites. Results: In the present study, all participants male with a mean age 33.9 years. The final evaluation of scores at different work stations indicated that 17% of the stations with a risk of level 1, 59% had a risk level of 2, 17% of risk level 3, and 0.07% of risk rate 4. Principally, the consequences of the initial evaluation of the RULA technique are based on the establishment of the "waste breakdown" and "demolition work" duties at risk level 4, which makes changes and ergonomic intervention immediately necessary. Conclusions: With the carrying out of corrective actions in the "waste breaker" units and "destructive work of the Tundish" as a outcome of the assessment of the RULA technique and providing other ergonomic strategies, including the inclusion of an educational plan focused on ergonomic fundamental, an important stage was taken to decrease the prevalence of skeletal muscle disorders.

Keywords:

Musculoskeletal Disorders , RULA Technique , Steel Industry