repeated the score is 2. The score is also 2 if the load is intermittent but more than 10 kg. Lastly, if the load or a force of more than 10 kg is experienced statically or repeatedly, the score is 3. If a load or force of any magnitude is experienced with rapid build-up or a jolting action the score is also 3. These ranges were developed from Putz-Anderson”’ and Stevenson and Baidva”. The muscle use and force scores are assessed for the bodv part groups A and B and recorded in the boxes provided on the score sheet of Figure 3. These are then added to the posture scores which are derived from Tables 1 and 2 respectively to give two scores called score C and score D.
STAGE 3: Development of the grand score aud action . . ILS t The third stage of RULA, and thus of its development, is to incorporate both score C and score D into a single grand score whose magnitude provides a guide to the priority for subsequent investigations. Each possible combination of score C and score D was given a rating. called a grand score, of l-7 based upon the estimated risk of injury due to musculoskeletal loading (‘Figure 6). For a grand+score of 1 or 2, the working posture would have scored 2 or less for both body segments groups A and B, and the scores for muscle use and force would be 0. Working postures and actions which have a grand score of 1 or 2 are considered acceptable if not maintained or repeated for long periods. A grand score of 3 or 4 will be given to working postures which are outside suitable ranges of motion as defined in the literature and also working postures which are within suitable ranges of motion but where repetitive actions, static loading or the exertion of force are required. Further investigation is needed for these operations and changes may be required. A grand score of 5 or 6 indicates those working postures which are not within suitable ranges of motion: the operator is required to perform repetitive movements and/or static muscle work. and there may be a need to exert force. It is suggested that these operations are investigated soon and changes made in the short term while long-term measures to reduce the levels of exposure to risk factors are planned. A grand score of 7 would be given to anvM working postures at or near the end of range of