Figure 1 The posture scores for body part group A, the upper arm, lower arm. wrist and wrist twist
0 1 for O-10” flexion;
0 2 for N-20” flexion;
0 3 for 20” or more flexion; 0 4 if in extension.
If the neck is twisted these posture scores are increased by 1. If the neck is in side-bending then the score is increased by 1 (Figure 2).
The ranges for the trunk are developed from Drury15, Grandjean” and Grandjean et al’“.
l 1 when sitting and well supported with a hip-trunk angle of 90” or more;
0 2 for O-20” flexion;
0 3 for 20-60” flexion;
0 4 for 60” or more flexion.
If the trunk is twisting the score is increased by 1. If the trunk is in side-bending, the score is increased by 1.
The leg posture scores are defined as:
l 1 if the legs and feet are well supported when seated with weight evenly balanced;
l 1 if standing with the body weight evenly distributed over both feet, with room for changes of position;
l 2 if the legs and feet are not supported or the weight
is unevenly balanced. . . . w., .
Recording the posture score The assessment commences by observing the operator during several work cycles in order to select the tasks and postures for assessment. Selection may be made of the posture held for the greatest amount of the work cycle or where highest loads occur. As RULA can be conducted quickly, an assessment can be made of each posture in the work
cycle. When using RULA, only the right or left side is assessed at a tirne. After observing the operator it may be obvious that only one arm is under load; however, if undecided, the observer would assess both sides.
Using Figure 1 the observer records the posture scores for the upper arm, lower arm, wrist and wrist twist in the column of boxes marked A on the left side of the score sheet (Figure 3). Similarly, using Figure 2, the posture scores for the neck, trunk and legs are
calculated and recorded in the column of boxes marked
X3 on the score sheet. . , t &
The level of detail required in RULE was selected to provide enough information upon which initial recommendations can be made, but also to be brief enough to be administered quickly as an initial screen- ing tool. The balance of detail was discussed and developed over some time with the assistance of four ergonomists and an occupational physiotherapist.